2022
December
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A Statement from Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., President of The University of Scranton, on the Passing of Pope Benedict XVI
Today I join leaders throughout Catholic higher education in celebrating the life and legacy of Pope Benedict XVI. As a true pastor and scholar, his writings and teachings will continue to inspire theologians for generations to come. More than that, as a great pastoral leader, he called us all to a deeper relationship with God, one grounded in love and fidelity. As he said so well in his beautiful work, God is Love: Deus Caritas Est, “Love is the light—and in the end, the only light—that can always illuminate a world grown dim and give us the courage needed to keep living and working.”
I ask that we all pray for the repose of the soul of Pope Benedict on his passing and for the enduring mission of the Church to which he devoted his life.
Statement on the Passing of Pope Benedict XVI
The University of Scranton welcomed a new cohort of students into its Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program. Classes for the program, which seeks to develop future executives to serve area nonprofit institutions, begin in January 2023.
The certificate program combines a rigorous academic component taught by Kania School of Management faculty with expertise in nonprofit organizations, a mentorship and experiential learning. The program includes capstone project that requires participants to form a comprehensive plan to solve a current issue faced by the nonprofit organization they represent.
Since beginning in 2017, 47 participants, representing 40 separate regional nonprofit organizations, have graduated from the program.
Members of the 2023 cohort of Scranton’s Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program and the organizations they represent are:
Kathleen Barry, deputy COO, The Wright Center;
Tiffany Benedict, Susquehanna County program manager, Women's Resource Center;
Amy Benjamin, finance director, Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission;
Laura Boyle, founder/board president, Scranton Youth Arts Coalition;
Avianna Carilli, coordinator of domestic and international service programs, The University of Scranton;
Matthew Ceruti, vice president, resource development, United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne and Pike counties;
Lori Chaffers, executive director, Outreach;
Andrew Chew, director of research, The Institute;
Lauren Cleveland, executive director of administration, Friendship House;
Arrah Fisher, executive director, The Cooperage;
Susan Jeffery, administrator, Hawk Family Foundation;
Glynis Johns, founder and CEO, Black Scranton Project;
Art Levandoski, coordinator of marketing and development, Jewish Family Services;
Amy Luyster, vice president, Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce;
Josh Nespoli, deputy director, Community Strategies Group;
Jennifer Passaniti, executive director, Center for Health and Human Services Research and Action;
Joan Peterson, director, Court Appointed Special Advocates, Lackawanna County;
Shane Powers, COO, NeighborWorks;
Erica Rogler, executive director, Wyoming County Cultural Center/Dietrich Theater;
John Santa Barbara, regional philanthropy officer, American National Red Cross;
For additional information visit the Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program webpage or call 570-941-4047.
$content.getChild('content').textValueNonprofit Leadership Program Welcomes New Cohort
Faculty and staff of The University of Scranton Education Department gathered with education students and their school cooperating teachers to celebrate the ending of the students’ semester of student teaching.
The twenty Scranton graduate and undergraduate students served as student teachers during the fall semester at ten local schools in the following nine school districts: Carbondale, Dunmore, Mid Valley, Mountain View, Pittston, Riverside, Scranton, Valley View and Western Wayne.
Fall semester 2022 student teachers at Scranton and their cooperating teachers were:
Graduate student Khadiga AboBakr of Scranton and cooperating teacher Christine McDermott, Riverside Junior Senior High School;
Senior Blaire Adams of Cedar Grove, New Jersey, and cooperating teacher Laura Schultz Dunmore Elementary Center;
Senior Kelly Bierals of Mendham, New Jersey, and cooperating teacher Alyssa Bohenek, Valley View Elementary School;
Senior Cassandra Colozza of Old Forge and cooperating teacher Ashley Coviello, Mountain View Elementary School;
Senior Jordan Czap of Danbury, Connecticut, and cooperating teacher Casey Ehnot, Dunmore Elementary Center;
Senior Karen Degnan of Scotch Plains, New Jersey and cooperating teacher Josh Carpenter, Mountain View Elementary School;
Senior Andrea Filachek of Lagrangeville, New York, and cooperating teacher Tracey MacCallum, Mid Valley Elementary Center;
Senior Abigail Knobler of Norristown and cooperating teacher Lisa Gibbons, Mid Valley Elementary Center;
Senior Jack Lear of Coatesville and cooperating teacher Gina Grebas, Riverside East Elementary School;
Senior Emily Mac Millan of Clark, New Jersey, and cooperating teacher Katie Calvert, Carbondale Elementary School;
Senior Julia Mancuso of Dunmore and cooperating teacher Shelly Waibel, Neil Armstrong Elementary School;
Senior Sophia Marlow of Massapequa, New York, and cooperating teacher Mary Theresa Clister, Carbondale Elementary School;
Senior Kayla Masterson of Old Tappan, New Jersey, and cooperating teacher Paul Zaffuto, Pittston Intermediate Center;
Senior Sofia Muta of Greenfield Township and cooperating teacher Thomas Hornlein, Pittston Intermediate Center;
Senior Jennifer Noll of Paoli and cooperating teacher Sara Amendolaro, Dunmore Elementary Center;
Senior Jessica Notari of Thompson and cooperating teacher Summer Klikus, Evergreen Elementary School;
Senior Danielle Raffa of East Northport, New York, and cooperating teacher Mary Alice Raider, Valley View Elementary School;
Senior Laura Scanlon of Scranton and cooperating teacher Ann Marie Barhight, Carbondale Elementary School;
Senior Anna Trojan of Airmont, New York, and cooperating teacher Michele Walsh, Dunmore Elementary Center;
Senior Bridget Warren of Westfield, New Jersey, and cooperating teacher Justine Smith, Riverside East Elementary School.
University Students And Cooperating Teachers Meet
Staff Senate President Mark Murphy greeted a crowd of more than 350 attendees at The Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon that was hosted Wednesday, Dec. 14 in The McIlhenney Ballroom of The DeNaples Center.
"This is a community that gives ... and this is a very wonderful example of the generosity of our University of Scranton community and staff," said Murphy, referencing raffle baskets created with donated prizes.
Murphy credited Vice President Kristi Klien, the Social Events and Community Building Committee and all volunteers with organizing the event. He closed with an Ignatian prayer.
Attendees were invited to bring donations for Community Intervention Center including packaged socks, underwear, small toiletries (soap, shampoo, oral care, feminine products). Raffle and 50/50 proceeds will benefit Scranton Alliance for Equality (SAFE).
The event was free to attend for University staff members.
More Than 350 Attend Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon
If you can’t stroll through campus this season, please swipe through the photo gallery below for some highlights of the campus Christmas decorations.
To quote Charles Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol,” The University of Scranton knows “how to keep Christmas well.”
Spirit of Christmas Beams at Scranton
The University of Scranton awarded 2023 faculty development intersession grants to four faculty members.
Gerard Dumancas, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry, received a grant to research “A facile, convenient, and affordable method to determine the authenticity of liquid chicken egg whites.” He earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of the Philippines and a Ph.D. in analytical chemistry from Oklahoma State University. He joined the faculty at Scranton in 2021.
Christopher Hauser, Ph.D. , assistant professor of philosophy, received a grant to research “Aristotle’s Epistemology of Essence.” He earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and history from Dartmouth College and a doctorate in philosophy from Rutgers University. He joined the faculty at Scranton in 2020.
Adam Pratt, Ph.D., associate professor of history, received a grant to research “The Noble and Indefatigable Auxiliary of the Republican Party: The Wide-Awake in Pennsylvania.” He earned a bachelor’s degree from Clemson University and a master’s degree and Ph.D. from Louisiana State University. He joined the faculty at Scranton in 2013.
Brian Snee, Ph.D., associate professor of communications and media, received a grant to research “The Scene of the Crime: Rhetorical Silences in Fetterman’s Gun Violence.” Dr. Snee earned a bachelor’s degree in communication from The University of Scranton. He earned a master’s degree and Ph.D. in communication arts and science from Penn State University. He joined the faculty at Scranton in 2020.
Read more about faculty research and awards on the Royal News Faculty Webpage.
Intersession Grants Awarded for January 2023
Understanding how structures interact at the microscopic and even molecular scales has been studied for decades, with applications developed for numerous products ranging from pharmaceuticals and medical treatments to dry cleaning. In researching nanostructure interactions, certain approximations of structural properties that could not be precisely measured were commonly used.
New research by John Deák, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry at The University of Scranton, combined two existing techniques for the first-time to test the approximations used for reverse micelle structural properties, which are often applied in studying microscopic interactions. The research, published in October in the Journal of Molecular Liquids, shows that assumptions of the shape of the structure at a certain scale range were incorrect.
“The research finding means a lot of text books will have to be updated,” joked Dr. Deák of the significance of his research, which will actually lead to more precise calculations of nano-level interactions that can be applied to drug delivery systems and other life-saving, or life-changing, applications.
Dr. Deák explained that approximations used for the reverse micelle structure assumed a spherical shape, which his research confirmed is correct in certain scale ranges. However, his research showed that the structure changes to an ellipsoidal or egg-like shape at another range of the scale. He said the research explains variations found in data collected in numerous other studies conducted over decades.
“There was speculation about the assumed shape of the reverse micelle structures, because data collected in studies didn’t always fall in the expected range of calculations, but we didn’t have the ability to determine the shape,” said Dr. Deák, who worked on this project for five years. He combined two existing research techniques to examine various shape considerations for the first time which revealed a decades-long misunderstanding about the structure.
“This shows that we cannot assume shapes of nanostructures. We must determine the shapes and develop techniques to enable us to do this,” said Dr. Deák.
His study is titled “Volumetric determination of reverse micelle structural properties and the validity of commonplace approximations.”
Dr. Deák’s research interests include the molecular dynamics of condensed phases and interfaces, energy transfer mechanisms over self-assembled liquid boundaries, and permeation enhancement of biological tissue. His research has been published in dozens of academic journals, including the prestigious journal Science. He is an inventor on more than two dozen patents.
A faculty member at Scranton since 2002, Dr. Deák earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Buffalo and his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Rochester. He completed post-doctoral studies at the University of Illinois, Champaign.
Read more about faculty research and awards on the Royal News Faculty Webpage.
Research Shows Shape Matters at Nano Level
Students in Professor Charlie Cino’s Writing 105 and Writing106 classes gained industry insights on writing and acting from a featured guest. On Nov. 15, actor, producer, and writer Patrick Labyorteaux visited their class via a live Zoom conference.
Labyorteaux is best known for his role as Andy Garvey on the NBC television classic "Little House on the Prairie," a historical drama series which originally aired on NBC from 1974-1983. The show was based on American children's novels about life written by Laura Ingalls Wilder. He also appeared for 10 seasons in CBS adventure drama television series "JAG," in the role of Bud Roberts, Jr.
Prior to Labyorteaux's visit, Cino assigned students a research project on the actor and screenwriter's career and accomplishments. For more than an hour during the Nov. 15 event, 35 students participated in a Q and A session with Labyorteaux with writing at the core of their discussions. Labyorteaux also addressed questions ranging from the day in the life on a set to working with his brother Matthew on "Little House on the Prairie".
As an actor, Labyorteaux has guest-starred on many popular television series, including "Scandal," "CSI," "Starsky and Hutch," and "21 Jump Street". His appearances in feature films include: "Heathers," "The Yes Man" with Jim Carrey, and "Summer School" with Mark Harmon.
Labyorteaux has also written a number of screenplays and television scripts and with his wife Tina Albanese was co-executive producer/co-creator of the Nickelodeon sitcom "See Dad Run". A force in voice-over work, he provided the narration for the WB network in the 1990s.
Currently, Labyorteaux is creating several screenplays and television pilots, and when not acting, he teaches the craft. He also provides voice-over instruction to adults and children.
Actor, Producer, Writer Patrick Labyorteaux Speaks with Students
University of Scranton students, faculty and staff participated annual Christmas gift giving programs organized by the Center for Service and Social Justice. Performance Music also provided gifts donated by area residents from its Empty Stocking Fund Concert. The gifts were given to Friends of the Poor/Catholic Social Services who will distribute the donated items to families in need.
In addition, the Center for Service and Social Justice organized the Adopt a Family program with the Catherine McAuley Center.
University Conducts Annual Christmas Gift Drives
Sophomore goalie Nicole Olson (Stoughton, Mass./Ursuline Academy) of The University of Scranton women's soccer team earned College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-American First Team honors as announced by the organization on Tuesday afternoon, Dec. 6.
Olson is the fifth member of the women's soccer program all-time to receive Academic All-American recognition along with Nicole Bayman (2001), Emily Farrell (2012), Erin Casey (2016) and Becca Russo (2019).
The Stoughton, Mass., native was also one of just three sophomores at the Division III level to receive the prestigious honor this year along with Michaela Bosco of Trinity University and Calista Burke of Rowan University.
A total of 42 Scranton student-athletes have now earned Academic All-American distinction.
This season, Olson started all 21 games she appeared in in goal for the Royals and ranked in the top 10 nationally in goals against average (0.26), save percentage (.918) and shutouts (11). She conceded just five goals on the season as Scranton advanced to a second straight Sweet 16 and captured a third consecutive Landmark Conference title.
In an NCAA first round matchup against Bowdoin, Olson tallied six saves and made a decisive save during the penalty kick shootout to help the Royals advance to the second round where they notched a 3-0 victory over Westfield State.
A Kinesiology major, she boasts a perfect 4.0 GPA and is a two-time University of Scranton Dean's List honoree.
Click here to view the full 2022 Academic All-American Women's Soccer teams.
Women's Soccer's Nicole Olson Garners CSC Academic All-American First Team Honors
Cyrus P. Olsen III, D.Phil., associate professor of theology and religious studies at The University of Scranton, is part of an inter-disciplinary team of professors from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School awarded a Templeton Foundation Grant. The multi-year grant in the amount of $500,000 funds research on how “social networks” among Ugandans includes one’s ancestors and may influence health-seeking behavior in the context of brain health.
The project (Buffering, Porosity and Brain Health in Uganda) is co-directed by Dr. Olsen and Ian Corbin, Ph.D., Harvard Medical School Faculty and co-director of the Human Network Initiative (HNI), an interdisciplinary research center housed in the Neurology Department of Brigham and Women’s Hospital. The third member of the U.S. research team is Amar Dhand, M.D., D.Phil., associate professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School and principal investigator at the Dhand Lab, a clinical neurology research center specializing in stroke health and social network analytics, where Drs. Olsen and Corbin are clinical observers.
“The research is focused on brain health of people in Kampala, Masaka and Bwindi/Buhoma, three key locations made possible by Scranton’s twenty years of immersive education, created by Robin and Charles Pinches, named the Scranton-Uganda Partnership,” said Dr. Olsen. “It is to Dr. Pinches and his close collaborators, Scott Kellermann, M.D., and Emmanuel Katongole, Ph.D., that the relationship between Uganda and Scranton remains central to the University’s commitment to global education. The present grant is an outgrowth of that relationship.”
Dr. Olsen explained that the Dhand Lab and its subsidiary, HNI, extend social network analytics into the regions of medical anthropology, philosophy, sociology and religion. They are collaborating with the Dhand Lab and HNI to understand how cultural and spiritual factors impact health-seeking behavior.
“Dr. Dhand’s international research reputation with the National Institute for Health, among other grant organizations, remains essential to the project,” said Dr. Olsen.
The research project, titled “Buffering, Porosity and Brain Health in Uganda,” is for the 2022-2025 period. Through the research study, they will collect and analyze empirical data on patient behavior and social connections of 50 participants in Uganda to determine the various ways that “social networks” impact treatment-seeking actions. They will also approach the data collected from a theoretical perspective to develop a theory of the benefits and dangers of viewing humans as “porous,” or readily influenced by outside forces and actors, in the context of healthcare.
“The applied potential of this theory is to support the design of culturally and contextually appropriate brain health interventions,” according to the research grant proposal. Such interventions must be evidence-based and are part of the future of the project after this initial funding period. Their Ugandan research council and collaborators throughout the country will guide the research and ensure local languages and customs are appropriately integrated into all design and project execution.
For this academic year, Dr. Olsen is on leave from Scranton, serving as the LoSchiavo Chair in Catholic Social Thought at the University of San Francisco and a visiting scholar at the Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley. He was named a fellow at the Lonergan Institute at Boston College for the summer of 2022.
At Scranton, he was named an inaugural fellow for the Gail and Francis Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities for the spring 2021 semester. In 2017, Dr. Olsen received the University’s Excellence in Advancing Interdisciplinary Study Award, which honors faculty members who cross boundaries between disciplines and departments to create innovative pedagogies that enhance students’ learning and prepare them for real-world challenges.
A faculty member at Scranton since 2006, Dr. Olsen has served on numerous committees and led multiple projects during his tenure at Scranton. Most recently, he served as co-director, Health Humanities Concentration. He has published articles in peer-reviewed academic journals and has presented at more than a dozen professional conferences, meetings and workshops, many of which were also peer-reviewed. Additionally, he is a peer reviewer for the National Endowment for the Humanities and a research partner with the Bethany Land Institute for an Esri Geo-information Systems grant to map land use and reforestation in Luweero, Uganda.
Dr. Olsen, received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington and both his master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Oxford.
Professors Study Impact of Social Network on Health
By: Julia Gavigan ’23, student correspondent
When Phil Grieco ’00, the senior director of Brand Strategy and Consumer Insights at Monster Energy, was an undergraduate at The University of Scranton, he already knew he had a passion for communicating with others.
“Nothing else spoke to me besides communications,” he said. “I loved talking to people and public speaking. I was so drawn to it.”
While working toward a bachelor’s degree in communications and media studies, Grieco was impressed by the University’s emphasis on the Jesuit value of cura personalis, or care for the whole person. That level of attention to his wellbeing helped prepare him for his remarkable career.
“It felt like people had eyes on you,” Grieco said. “The professors had eyes on you; you weren’t just a number.
“I felt like there was a personal touch.”
He also learned the value of trying new things and meeting new people.
“That shaped who I am today,” he said.
Grieco started his career in public relations at MFA Marketing and Public Relations, a small agency now known as Finn Partners in New York City. At MFA, he worked with clients like Burton Snowboards and Timex Watches. He then switched companies in 2003 and began to work for Octagon, a sports marketing agency, as a senior account executive in Public Relations and Marketing. At Octagon, he was exposed to the inner workings of the sports marketing industry. In 2007, he became senior brand manager of Mars, the world’s leading manufacturer of chocolate, where he learned “everything from brand positioning to how to market.”
“Who is the target consumer?” Grieco said. “What is our brand? What is our message? And how are we going to go out, make it relevant, stay top of mind and build loyalty?”
At Mars, Grieco directed multimillion-dollar NASCAR and NFL partnerships across multiple brands, including M&Ms, Snickers, Pedigree, Doublemint, JuicyFruit, Skittles and Starburst. He continued to utilize the line of questioning he developed at Mars when he began working for the National Basketball Association, where he drove sponsorship deals for NBA, WNBA and G League teams to maximize revenue growth. During his time with the NBA, he also worked directly with the Sacramento Kings, Minnesota Timberwolves, Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors and New Orleans Pelicans.
In 2016, Grieco moved across the country to the West Coast to work as the director of Global Marketing for GoPro, where he shaped the global marketing strategy of all GoPro brand partnerships, including Under Armour, BMW, Mattel, Toyota and Red Bull.
In his current position at Monster Energy, Grieco is responsible for overseeing strategic marketing and innovation initiatives.
“I get to work more closely with our leadership because I sit at the hub of our data,” he said. “They constantly want to know how we are doing, how are we performing, what’s up, what’s down, why is this retailer down, and why is this brand down.”
“Sometimes you can find it in the data; sometimes you need to find that information through a conversation with a stakeholder, or custom research, and that’s why data is so important.”
Throughout the creative process, Grieco says it’s imperative to listen to the wants and needs of the consumer in order to create a successful brand. One of the many projects that Grieco has been involved in at Monster Energy that exemplifies his ability to respond to the demands of his consumers was the launch of True North Energy seltzer, an organic, plant-based seltzer. The research into the target audience and goals of the launch began two years ago with the emerging popularity of regular and spiked seltzers. Starting with a research brief, Grieco and his teams discovered there was a growing interest in healthy seltzers, which eventually resulted in the creation of True North.
Grieco was also involved in the creation of Reign, a performance energy drink and one of Grieco’s most successful beverages at Monster Energy. The 300 mg caffeine-infused beverage was launched three years ago to compete against Bang Energy drink, and, within 18 months, it became a $300 million brand. Today, it generates $450 million in retail sales annually.
As demonstrated by the products he’s launched at Monster Energy, the key to Grieco’s success is simply listening to and understanding the people around him. By caring for the needs of his consumers and embracing a form of corporatized cura personalis, Grieco proves that paying attention to each individual can benefit both one’s personal and professional lives.
Alumni Spotlight: Phil Grieco '00
The Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 14 in The McIlhenney Ballroom. While the event is free for University staff members, registration is required. Seatings will take place from either 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Attendees are invited to bring donations for Community Intervention Center including packaged socks, underwear, small toiletries (soap, shampoo, oral care, feminine products). Raffle and 50/50 proceeds will benefit Scranton Alliance for Equality (SAFE).
Register here.
Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon Deadline Dec. 9
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague’s accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!
THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER FOR DECEMBER 2022 IS: LORI MORAN – Center for Career Development
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR THE UNIVERSITY?
13 yearsWHAT IS YOUR TITLE?
WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love working with a great team and helping students along their career journeys.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN?
Spending time with my family.We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Lori does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Lori and all our nominees.
Lori will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University foodservice outlets, as well as a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for the month of December. Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition event in May to receive a certificate of appreciation.
We congratulate our winner, Lori, and all nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!
DECEMBER 2022 NOMINEES:
Melinda Finnerty, Student Health Services
Donna Cochrane-Kalinoski, Nursing
Shannon Murphy Fennie, Assistant Dean of Students
Julie Brackeva-Phillips, IT
Thomas Cody, Infrastructure & Security Services
Erin Boughton, Facilities
Jim Piazza, Carpenter
Andy Adryan, Facilities
Michael Ritterbeck, Center for Student Engagement
Anthony Amato, Facilities
John Garzarella, Athletic - Long/Byron Maintanence
Cathy Seymour, Campus Ministry
Salisa Brown, Faculty Secretary PHY/EE/CHEM
Jason Oakey, IT
Casey Steiner, Center for Student Engagement
Joel Krisanda, Weinberg Memorial Library
Kevin Rude, University Police
Lori Moran, Career Development
Melissa Abda, Human Resources
Brenda Clark, External Affairs
John Garzarella, Facilities
Cindy Meo, Facilities
Hugh Doyle, Admissions
Melissa Afshari, Graduate & International Admissions
Deanna Beyrent, IT
Mary Beth Watson, PCPS Advising Center
Jane Johnson, Rec Sports
Ann Keeler, Counseling and Human Services
Rose Striefsky, Advancement
Karyn Salitsky, Information Technology
Diane Kennedy, IT
Robert Liskowicz, Counseling Center
Jillian Wall, Office of Admissions
Stephanie Adamec, CHEW
Brad Troy, Residence Life
Amy Hoegen, Campus Ministries
Frank Cardamone, Grounds
John Garzarella, Athletics/Maintenance
Thomas Kern, IT
Margaret Mazzino, Facilities
Starr Lairf, Facilities
Jillian Wall, Admissions
Daniela Teneva, Facilities
Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award Winner, December
Many of the donations were designated for the Center for Service and Social Justice, a University organization that offers opportunities for students to express their faith in reflective service and work toward the transformation of unjust societal structures while responding to local and national needs. To view the donor honor roll, visit this link.
University Community Celebrates Giving Tuesday 2022
The University of Scranton Women's Basketball team will battle Susquehanna on Sunday, Jan. 15, as part of a full day of Landmark Conference men's and women's hoops action at The Palestra in Philadelphia.
Game time for the Lady Royals will begin at 2:30 p.m. The University will hold a post-game reception at New Deck Tavern, 3408 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, at 5 p.m. The $20 reception fee includes appetizers and two drink tickets (game ticket not included). To register for the reception, visit this link.
University To Host Lady Royals Post-Game Reception Jan. 15
The Scranton Club of NEPA will gather to cheer on the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins as they host the Lehigh Valley Phantoms at Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza Friday, Jan. 20, at 7:05 p.m.
The $20 price of admission will include a $4 food voucher. To register, visit this link.
Scranton Club of NEPA To Gather At Penguins Game Jan. 20
The University will hold its annual Day of Service on Earth Day 2023, which will fall on Saturday, April 22.
In honor of Earth Day, the University is seeking environmentally-focused regional service projects such as cleaning up a park, schoolyard or church; it is also seeking to serve your communities in other ways, such as food and clothing drives. Contact alumni@scranton.edu by January 31 to propose a service project in your region.
Save The Date For The Day Of Service, April 22
The University will celebrate Reunion Weekend 2023 from June 9-11. Registration for the event will open in March. For more information, visit scranton.edu/reunion or email alumni@scranton.edu.
The “Planning to Attend” list for Reunion Weekend 2023 has officially opened. Visit this link to add your name to the Planning to Attend list, and visit the Planning to Attend page to see which of your classmates is planning to attend the festivities.
Reminder: Save The Date For Reunion 2023 June 9-11
There is still time to register for the Jesuit Center's Advent Daily Devotional emails.
Each day of the season of Advent, enjoy a few moments of reflection, learning, prayer and inspiration by registering to receive this collection of daily essays written by our Jesuits, alumni, students, faculty and staff.
The holidays can often be a busy, stressful time, and the Advent Daily Devotional emails offer a great opportunity to intentionally take a few moments each day for spiritual renewal. To register, visit this link.
Reminder: Register Today For The Advent Daily Devotional Emails
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Patricia McCormack, M.D. ’76, Scranton, recently published her first book, “Life After Martin.” Inspired by one of the staples of flute repertoire, it chronicles an adult amateur musician’s quest to master this work. “Life After Martin” is available in paperback on Amazon and as an ebook on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Apple books.
William (Bill) Savage ’79, Lemoyne, has spent the fall semester teaching writing and rhetoric as an adjunct faculty member at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia and Alvernia University in Reading. Savage previously taught at Towson University, York College of Pennsylvania, and Harrisburg Area Community College. Savage has spent nearly 40 years in journalism, most recently at The Morning Call in Allentown, as well as several years at The Times Leader in Wilkes-Barre and The Patriot-News in Harrisburg, among other newspapers. A member of the Dramatists Guild, Philadelphia, Savage has had some of his plays read or performed publicly in Philadelphia, London and Mount Gretna. He has also written two novels: “To the Mill and Back,” based on his teen years working in the textile industry in Scranton, and “Redemption by the Bay.”
Gary Jones G’84, South Abington Township, Eastern Division Vendor Relations manager at Hajoca Corporation, received the Fred V. Keenan Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by the American Supply Association, for a long history of service and dedication to the association and the PHCP-PVF industry.
Charlie Flint '89, Smyrna, Georgia, launched Filmland Spirits, a new business, in September 2022. Filmland Spirits (www.filmlandspirits.com) is an award-winning spirits brand bringing people together through captivating stories and great-tasting spirits. Their current lineup includes two bourbons and a rye, which are available online and in fine retail shops in California and Kentucky.
Glynnis Jones '02, G '03, Lansdale, recently accepted a position as an assistant professor in the Master's Degree Level Occupational Therapy program at Moravian University in Bethlehem.
Jude Krushnowski ’10, Champaign, Illinois, was hired as director of the Foreign Language Teacher Education program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Krushnowski was also elected as incoming director of Region 4 of the Illinois Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages.
Ashley Hill ’17, Aurora, Colorado, is a new lead of the competency restoration program at Denver Health on their forensic psychiatric unit, working toward stabilizing and educating inmates with acute psychosis in preparation to defend themselves in court.
MARRIAGES
Patrick Eiben ’11 to Alexis Constantinopoulos ’11
Nicole Lasota ’16 to Ryan Strelec
Kat Fletcher ’20 to Charlie Nugent ’20
DEATHS
Selig S. Strassman, M.D. ’48, Bainbridge, Ohio
Robert W. Weibel, M.D. ’51, Lansdale
William G. Lowry ’54, Louisville, Kentucky
Joseph T. Valonis ’62, Annapolis, Maryland
Michael M. Echan ’64, Vestal, New York
Joseph A. Gentile ’69, Scranton
Paul M. Swift ’75, Sea Isle City, New Jersey
J. Timothy Cannon, Ph.D. ’71, Scranton
Christopher J. Hunt ’82, Howell, New Jersey
Ryan J. Martin ’01, Danielsville
Timothy R. Kapp ’06, Dunmore
FRIENDS' DEATHS
Cheryl L Augustine, sister of John Major '10.
Alumni Class Notes, December 2022
The University of Scranton and Fu Jen Catholic University, a Jesuit university in Taiwan, entered into an articulation agreement for a 4+1 MBA degree partnership. The agreement allows qualified students at Fu Jen University’s College of Management to take graduate-level courses at Fu Jen during their senior year, which will be recognized at The University of Scranton and allow the students to earn an MBA from Scranton in as little as one year after completing their bachelor’s degree at Fu Jen.
“The articulation agreement already signed and other dual degree initiatives being further explored at this time, build upon our long-standing relationship with Fu Jen, other outstanding Taiwanese universities and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office,” said Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton. “We are especially grateful for the dedication and service of Dr. Ann Pang White, who has tirelessly led our Asian Studies program and encouraged our numerous connections with Taiwan.”
Ann Pang-White, Ph.D., professor of philosophy, serves as director of Asian Studies at Scranton.
The University’s partnership with Taiwan began in 2010 with several divisions in the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in New York, including the Foreign Affairs Division, the Education Division (Ministry of Education), the Government Information Office and the Council for Cultural Affairs (now combined to form the new Ministry of Culture).
Programming established through the University’s international partnership with the Education Division of TECO-New York and Taiwan Ministry of Education includes university-level faculty- and student-exchange programs with elite universities in Taiwan, such as Fu Jen Catholic University. With support from the “Chinese language-and-culture teacher from Taiwan” grant, Scranton hosts visiting instructors annually. In addition, more than 10 University of Scranton students have participated in “Huayu Language Immersion Scholarship” to study in Taiwan at a university-level language center, including at Fu Jen.
Through the partnership with the Taiwan Ministry of Culture, the University has hosted numerous programs in Scranton, including performances by the Taiwan Bangzi Opera Company, the Chai Found Music Workshop and the Taiyuan Puppet Theater, in addition to hosting several lectures and film festivals with meet the author and director discussions.
In 2014, the University became the only higher education institution in the world to receive a replica of the Kinmen Peace Bell. The gift was given as a gesture from Taiwan in honor of the University’s charter membership in the Taiwan Academy and its success with its Taiwanese cultural programming and Asian Studies program.
In addition, the University’s Slattery Center for the Humanities Global Ignatian Humanities Alliance includes student and faculty exchanges with Fu Jen Catholic University in Taiwan in addition to universities in Uganda; and Spain.
For additional information about the 4+1 MBA degree partnership with Fu Jen Catholic University, contact Dr. Pang-White at ann.pang-white@scranton.edu or 570-941-7643.
Pictured below at a facilitating meeting at Fu Jen Catholic University are, from left: representing Fu Jen Catholic University Bell Chiu, secretary; Hsiao-Yun Huang, Ph.D., associate dean; and Bruce Lee, Ph.D., dean of Fu Jen’s College of Management; Ann Pang-White, Ph.D., director of Asian Studies, The University of Scranton; and representing Fu Jen Catholic University Chun-Chi Yang, Ph.D., dean, and Ming-Chieh Ma, Ph.D., associate dean, of Fu Jen’s Office of International Education. At the articulation agreement signing at The University of Scranton, from left: Murli Rajan, Ph.D., associate dean of Scranton’s Kania School of Management; Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., interim provost and senior vice president for The University of Scranton; and Mark Higgins, Ph.D., dean of Scranton’s Kania School of Management.
$content.getChild('content').textValueScranton and Fu Jen Catholic University Sign Agreement
The Jesuit Center invites you to enjoy daily inspiration and reflection this holiday season by registering for its Advent Daily Devotional emails.
Each day of the season of Advent, enjoy a few moments of reflection, learning, prayer and inspiration by registering to receive this collection of daily essays written by our Jesuits, alumni, students, faculty and staff.
The holidays can often be a busy, stressful time. The Advent Daily Devotional emails offer a great opportunity to intentionally take a few moments each day for spiritual renewal. Click here to sign up to receive the Advent Daily Devotional emails.
Sign Up to Receive Advent Daily Devotional Emails
The Sursum Corda Award recognizes those members of the University’s staff who have made outstanding contributions to the life and mission of the University.
The nominees for the Sursum Corda Awards should have distinguished themselves in one or more of the following ways:
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Shown exceptional dedication and/or creativity in performing his or her duties, and
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Built, contributed, or nurtured the sense of community that has always been the hallmark of our campus community, and
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Contributed in a significant way to helping members of our community “grow to become the living presence of God in the world” (Father General Nicolas, former Superior General of the Society of Jesus).
Each year, a Sursum Corda Award is presented to three, or four members, of the University community:
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A member of the Professional/Paraprofessional staff;
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A member of the Clerical/Technical staff; and
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A member of the Maintenance/University Police staff
The Staff Senate has been asked to gather nominations for the Sursum Corda Award. The Staff Recognition and Excellence Awards Committee will be accepting nominations. Co-Chairs of the Staff Recognition Excellence Committee are Bernard Krzan and Andrea Malia.
Ready to nominate a person who has made outstanding contributions to the life and mission of the University? Find the award information sheet, a list of past recipients, and the award nomination form on the Staff Senate Yammer page.
Please fill out the nomination forms as thoroughly as possible (it does not have to be 100 percent complete) and send it to staffsenaterecognition@scranton.edu by Thursday, Dec. 22.
Call For Sursum Corda Award Nominations
A week after its beloved Noel Night, Performance Music at The University of Scranton will continue the holiday cheer at its annual Empty Stocking Fund Benefit Concert on Sunday, Dec. 11.
The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue. The event is open to the public, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis. Attendees are asked to bring either a new unwrapped toy, new toiletry items (toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, comb/brush, etc.) or a cash donation. All donated items will directly benefit local families in need this holiday season.
At the concert, Performance Music student musicians will perform solo, duet, trio and small group renditions of a variety of classic Christmas songs, according to Assistant Director for Percussion Janelle Decker.
“Our students enjoy preparing for this concert – it means a lot to them to be able to use their talents to benefit families in need at Christmas time,” said Decker.
Empty Stocking’s origins go back to 1999, when Conductor and Director of Performance Music Cheryl Boga’s friend, Alan Drake, the former chairman of the music department at Georgia’s Augusta College, told her about a benefit Christmas concert held there. When Boga asked Drake if he would mind if she brought the idea back to Scranton, he responded, “Absolutely not.”
For that inaugural year, she and Drake decided to wage a friendly competition to see which concert could raise the most money. That year Scranton Performance Music’s audiences prevailed, and an annual tradition where nobody “loses” was born.
No question, the concert’s charitable mission lends it a special resonance, and Boga said it’s always extremely moving to see the generously donated items out on display the night of the concert.
Of course, the concert itself never fails to produce an abundance of yuletide cheer. Graduate accounting student Jimmy Greenfield, Scranton, says, “You can see the light of Christmas in the eyes of the audience members as they walk in the door carrying bags of toys.”
Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.
For more information on the Empty Stocking Fund Benefit Concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music
Empty Stocking Fund Concert Set for Dec. 11
Parag Pathak, Ph.D., the Class of 1922 Professor of Economics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), presented “Still Worth the Trip? Modern-Era Busing and other Lessons from Urban School Reform” at The University of Scranton’s of 36th Henry George Lecture in November on campus. The founder of MIT’s Blueprint Labs, Dr. Pathak’s work on market design and education was recognized with several awards including a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers and the American Economic Association’s John Bates Clark Medal as the best American economist under age 40.
Considered the preeminent public lecture series on economics in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Henry George Lecture Series is presented by the University’s Economics and Finance Department and the campus chapter of Omicron Delta Epsilon, an international honor society for economics. Among the distinguished list of speakers who have spoken at previous lectures are ten winners of the Nobel Prize in Economics: Paul Romer (2018), Robert Shiller (2013), Tom Sargent (2011), Peter Diamond (2010), Paul Krugman (2008), Joseph Stiglitz (2001), George Akerlof (2001), Amartya Sen (1998), Robert Lucas (1995) and Robert Solow (1987). The lecture series is named in honor of the 19th century American economist and social reformer and is supported financially by a grant from the Robert Schalkenbach Foundation.
Below, Dr. Pathak, is shown with faculty of The University of Scranton’s Economics and Finance Department. From left: Jinghan Cai, Ph.D., associate professor of economics and finance; John Ruddy, D.P.S., associate professor of economics and finance; Dr. Pathak; Edward Scahill, Ph.D., associate professor of economics and finance; Pedro Monteiro, Ph.D., assistant professor of economics and finance; Iordanis Petsas, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Economics and Finance Department; and Aram Balagyozyan, Ph.D., associate professor of economics and finance.
$content.getChild('content').textValueHenry George Lecture Presented at Scranton
The University of Scranton was honored to host Curtis Zunigha, an enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians (Oklahoma) and co-founder/co-director of the Lenape Center in New York, for a keynote lecture and three-day series of campus and community meetings and engagements. At the keynote lecture at the University, he discussed the “Forced Removal of the Lenape People: History and Homecoming.”
“Zunigha shared his experience and mission to heal the wounds of forced removal and colonization and his desire to restore the circle of friendship, respect and shared occupancy,” said Julie Schumacher Cohen, assistant vice president for community engagement and government affairs at the University.
Kat Bolus of WVIA interviewed Zunigha during his visit to Scranton.
The Lenape people are among the original inhabitants of the Scranton area.
The visit was part of the Scranton's Story, Our Nation's Story project funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and was a collaboration with several University and community partners including the University’s History Department and Office of Equity and Diversity and community partners including the Black Scranton Project, Lackawanna County Arts & Culture Department, The Lackawanna Historical Society, Lackawanna Heritage Valley National and State Heritage Area, Scranton Public Library, and WVIA.
Visit www.scranton.edu/scrantonstory for more information.
$content.getChild('content').textValueLenape Heritage, History and Experiences Shared
By: Kelly Nee '23, student correspondent
Using products patented by NASA, University of Scranton students put into practice the principles they learn in Dr. Peter Andersen’s marketing and consumer behavior courses.
Dr. Andersen said more than 100 of his students have participated in NASA's Technology Transfer University (T2U) since spring 2021 when Scranton became the second school in Pennsylvania to engage in the project. Prior to that Lehigh University took part and in 2022, the University of Pennsylvania joined.
“…most universities use it for engineering students, while we are among very few business schools engaged in the program,” said Andersen, assistant professor of marketing in the department of Management and Marketing.
NASA's Technology Transfer University (T2U) encourages students to review its extensive patent portfolio and identify potential real-world applications for the technologies. Students can perform market research and gather consumer behavior data to formulate viable economic models, utilizing NASA-developed technology as the basis for a sustainable business case, according to technology.nasa.gov.
In Dr. Andersen’s spring 2021 Consumer Behavior courses, students developed business cases centered on NASA's inventions with patents that ranged from Freeze-Resistant Hydration Systems to Ammonia Recycling Techniques and Manufacturing Robots.
“Each team has the opportunity to choose the patent they are interested in ... some specialize in aviation and aerospace while others engage in power generation, robotics, electronics, healthcare, and environmental sciences," said Dr. Andersen.
That semester, one student chose to explore the potential of using NASA's Portable Wireless Signal Booster as a means for improving wireless connection to those in regions with poor connectivity. They also considered a secondary market for outdoor recreation enthusiasts who enjoy remote outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
In fall 2021, Andersen incorporated the NASA project into the Introduction to Marketing course.
"In Consumer Behavior courses, the group project focuses on identifying consumer segments to which entrepreneurs may target the NASA patented products. Students practice the knowledge they gained during the course to analyze the characteristics of consumer segments and the strategies that marketers can apply to run a profitable and sustainable business.
“In Introduction to Marketing courses, the group project is a semester-long effort to prepare a marketing plan for a firm that decides to produce and market one of the NASA patented products. They must follow a detailed outline with specific sections on situation analysis, resource analysis, targeting, brand positioning, and marketing mix strategies.”
Dr. Andersen, shown, said that in spring 2022, students in each class began having Zoom meetings with NASA managers before starting their project to get the information they need, and after they submit their written project to present their main findings. Currently, 20 students in his Introduction to Marketing class are grouped into seven teams that each work on a separate patent.
“The results of each group project are sent directly to NASA Technology Transfer Program managers who review them, analyze the progress and provide feedback or required changes, if needed. Students are not only graded for their team projects, but beginning in spring 2022, NASA began issuing certificates for each student who participated in the projects, making it more appealing,” said Dr. Andersen.
“This will be a great opportunity for students to build stronger resumes while joining job markets and sharing their experience with hiring managers during job interviews. NASA has also provided opportunities for virtual internships and support for patent applications to encourage students."
View a complete list of schools collaborating in NASA’s T2U program.
Dr. Andersen credited Dr. Satya P. Chattopadhyay, Ph.D., the department chair of Management and Marketing and the Dean’s Office of The Kania School of Management for their support during the project. He also expressed gratitude to Katrina Young and her NASA Technology Transfer Team at Langley Research Center in Virginia.
He’s already looking to the future:
"My goal is to engage more students and improve the quality of students’ work. ... I have already conducted some research on the aviation industry and customer satisfaction with airline services.”"After completing the first projects in two Consumer Behavior classes in spring 2021, NASA placed the name of our university among the universities that collaborate with NASA on the Technology to University project (T2U)."
Business Students Discover Real-world Uses for NASA Tech
Research on chemometrics by MS in Chemistry graduate student, Elizabeth Cobbinah, and Associate Professor of Chemistry, Dr. Gerard Dumancas, was published in a peer-reviewed journal. The article titled “Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Stacked Regression for the Simultaneous Determination of Fresh Cattle and Poultry Manure Chemical Properties” was published in Chemosensors. Dr. Dumancas, who leads a research group of one graduate and three undergraduate students, focuses his research on the development and application of chemometrics and spectroscopy for agricultural and biological analyses.
Chemometrics is an advanced statistics and computer application technique that is primarily used in analytical chemistry. Using chemometrics, the research group was able to simultaneously predict the concentrations of various chemical properties present in fresh cattle and poultry manure in only one minute, and without any need for complex chemical analysis.
In their latest study, the research team utilized a stacked regression ensemble approach, which collated the performance of the best-performing machine learning techniques.
The method coupled with a near infrared spectrometer, an instrument that uses a near infrared light, can be an alternative to the traditionally used partial least squares algorithm for a more accurate way of quantifying very important chemical properties in cattle and poultry manure. This method could offer an affordable, rapid, and more accurate means of quantifying chemical properties of manure samples – a very important approach for farmers in managing soil and mitigating water pollution.
Dr. Dumancas also published a research article titled “Comprehensive Examination of Cu, Pb, Zn, Fe, Mn and Cd in Lackawanna County Waters, Northeastern Pennsylvania” in Analytica in 2022. Dr. Dumancas with his undergraduate students in Instrumental Analysis laboratory course, Jake Butka and Adam Mehall, were able to perform a preliminary quantitative determination of the concentration of various metals found in Lackawanna County water sources.
Since coming to The University of Scranton this past spring, Dr. Dumancas published a total of 15 peer-reviewed manuscripts in several peer-reviewed journals, such as Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, Analytical Letters, Trends in Genetics, Current Epidemiology Reports, Analytica, and Chemosensors. He currently holds more than $2 million in research grants.
Cobbinah-Dumancas Work Published in Peer-Reviewed Journal
November
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The University of Scranton’s Asian Studies Program hosted two events that examined transnational migration in Taiwan and its cultural impact on the country’s literature and cinema. Hsin-Chin (Evelyn) Hsieh, Ph.D., presented “Bringing the World to Taiwan: Border Crossing and Transnational Cultural Flow in Contemporary Taiwan” and a screening of the award-winning film “The Good Daughter” and Q and A with the director Yu-Ying (Sally) Wu took place in October in Brennan Hall. The lecture and film screening and Q and A were sponsored by the University’s Asian Studies Program and its College of Arts and Sciences, and the Taipei Cultural Center in New York of the Taiwan Ministry of Culture.
Events Examined Transnational Migration in Taiwan
The “living wage income” required for a family of four in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties increased by 39 percent since 2019, according to findings of a 2022 Update of the NEPA Living Wage Report, which was presented to NEPA community leaders at The University of Scranton on Nov. 29.
The Living Wage Report for NEPA, first issued in 2016, defines a “living wage” as the wage rate at which a worker, employed on a full-time basis, can reach a standard of living that meets essential basic needs and allows the individual or family to live a modest but dignified life. The report outlines the living wage threshold for various family compositions in NEPA, such as a family of three, or a family of four. The report reflects principles of Catholic Social Teaching in regard to poverty, just wages and economic justice.
“While our region continues to make many gains and improvements, the study shows that too many of our neighbors experience economic hardship,” wrote Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, in a message in the 2022 update. “I am especially struck by how the median income for both counties now falls short of a living wage for all households with children. Costs are rising for food and other essential needs, while wages and supports are not keeping up, and there is a serious shortage of affordable housing.”
The 2022 report compares current and previous data, details the increases in costs of living, explains some of the major challenges facing those who fall below the living wage threshold, and proposes solutions to address these challenges. The 2022 report highlights mitigating factors – in particular, racial disparities and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related policies on economic security.
“The most recent data points to an acute need for affordable housing that calls for new policies and approaches,” said Julie Schumacher Cohen, assistant vice president for community engagement and government affairs. “The report also provides a new focus on racial disparities, with Black and Hispanic households having lower rates of homeownership and lower median incomes than white populations.”
Other key findings of the 2022 report show the continued gap between minimum wage and living wage; the poverty rate in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties remains high and the need for services has increased; and costs for basic needs continue to rise.
“The study found the living wage amounts have increased across the board. It’s taking more funds for families to thrive in 2022 than in the previous 2016 and 2019 reports. Rising prices of food and housing are key factors driving this trend, with rental prices having increased significantly since the start of the pandemic,” said Andrew Chew, director of research at The Institute (formerly named the Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development).
The 2022 update shows the living wage income for a family of two adults (one working) and two children in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties increased from $42,910 in 2019 to $59,717 in 2022 – a significant 39 percent increase.
“The findings of this year’s Living Wage Report emphasize the importance of continued community and government action to ensure that individuals and families in NEPA are able to live a modest but dignified life,” said JoyAnna Hopper, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science and co-director of the University’s Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service, in her remarks.
To achieve greater economic security for families in NEPA, the report recommends a multi-pronged approach is required that involves public policy changes, economic and workforce development efforts, government programs and private charitable activities.
Recommendations presented in the report include, expanding support for housing assistance and housing affordability; promoting practices to foster equity and inclusivity; advocating for increased wages; supporting cash assistance for low-income families and expanding food and basic necessities assistance; expanding access to existing social safety net programs and supporting programs and policies that help workers to obtain and keep jobs with family-sustaining wages.
The 2022 Update to the Living Wage Report is a project of The Institute and The University of Scranton. The full report is available on the University’s Living Wage webpage.
$content.getChild('content').textValueFindings of 2022 Living Wage Report Presented
The University of Scranton hosted a Fail Forward Panel discussion for students in November in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center as part of the University’s Resilient Royals initiatives. The panelists shared stories of some of their past struggles and failure, as well as how these challenges have shaped their lives.
Last year, the University’s Resilient Royals initiative earned the Jesuit Association of Student Personnel Administrators’ 2021 Ignatian Medal for Outstanding Academic Partnership.
Fail Forward Panel Held on Nov. 9
The No. 8 University of Scranton women's basketball team (6-0) limited No. 14 Ithaca to just 32.1 percent shooting and forced 20 turnovers en route to a 74-53 victory over the Bombers in a Top 15 non-conference matchup on Tuesday night, Nov. 29, at the John Long Center in Scranton.
The Lady Royals led for the final 38:56 of the game after taking a 4-2 lead just over a minute into the contest and never looked back.
Senior Bridget Monaghan (Florham Park, N.J./Morristown-Beard) hit a layup to give Scranton the afore-mentioned 4-2 lead and freshman Kaci Kranson (Scranton, Pa./Holy Cross) later buried a three for an 11-5 edge with 5:36 left in the first quarter. After the Bombers battled back to cut the lead to 15-13, Scranton closed the stanza on an 11-4 run and Kranson sank a free throw in the waning seconds for a 26-17 lead. Another Kranson layup stretched the lead into double digits at 34-23 with 4:24 left in the second quarter and the Scranton native helped the Lady Royals take a 40-30 lead into the locker room.
Kranson scored 19 of her career-high 24 points in the first half.
After Ithaca scored the first five points of the third quarter to slice the lead to 40-35, Monaghan sank a jumper and hit a pair of free throws on consecutive possessions to stretch the lead back to nine at 44-35 at the 6:20 mark. Just over a minute later, senior Hannah Angelini (Baldwin Place, N.Y./Somers) converted a three-point play that made it 47-35 and the Lady Royals held the lead in double digits at 52-41 after three. Angelini then hit a layup to open the scoring in the fourth quarter and ignite a 9-2 run as a Monaghan jumper capped things off to extend the lead to 61-43 with 6:53 to play. Graduate student Sam Rajza (Plains, Pa./Holy Redeemer) scored eight straight points for the hosts down the stretch to preserve the 74-53 win.
Kranson tallied her career-high 24 on 9-of-14 shooting and Monaghan added a season-high 20, while Rajza contributed 14 of her own behind a trio of three-pointers. Junior Maddy Ryan (Malvern, Pa./Villa Maria Academy) came through with six points, seven rebounds and a career-high eight steals for the Lady Royals.
Ryan's eight steals are the most by a Scranton player since Megan Kopecki recorded eight thefts versus Merchant Marine on Jan. 29, 2010.
Lindsey Albertelli paced Ithaca with 12 points in the setback.
Scranton shot 40.3% (25-of-62) from the field, 41.2% (7-of-17) from three-point range and 17-of-23 (73.9%) from the charity stripe in the contest. The Bombers were just 18-of-56 (32.1%) from the floor and 3-of-17 (17.6%) from beyond the arc.
Head coach Ben O'Brien's team forced the 20 Ithaca turnovers, which led to 21 points.
Ithaca held a 43-37 edge in the rebounding battle and Kranson and Ryan grabbed seven rebounds apiece to lead Scranton.
The Lady Royals will host Goucher in the Landmark Conference opener for both teams on Saturday afternoon at the John Long Center with action slated to get underway at 2 p.m.
Kranson's Career Night Helps No. 8 Women's Hoops Cruise Past No. 14 Ithaca, 74-53
On Monday, Dec. 5, The University of Scranton community is invited to experience a German Christmas Market. This German cultural event is being led by Celine Seeger, the German Fulbright Teaching Assistant, who is teaching German at the University for the 2022-2023 academic year.
The event will take place in the Kane Forum of Leahy Hall, room 235, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Various cultural activities will take place including sampling Children’s Punch and Christmas cookies, engaging in German Christmas songs, and learning a bit of history.
Everyone is encouraged to attend and experience a German Christmas market.
Experience a German Christmas Market Dec. 5
Performance Music at The University of Scranton will kick off the holiday season with its 55th annual Noel Night concert on Saturday, Dec. 3.
Beginning at 8 p.m. in the University’s Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, the concert will feature The University of Scranton Singers and Chamber Ensembles. Doors open at 7 p.m., with a prelude beginning at 7:05 p.m. Admission to the concert is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
The University’s Christmas gift to the community, Noel Night has been a beloved holiday tradition for numerous Scranton-area residents since its beginnings more than a half-century ago when it was founded by Rev. Edward Gannon, S.J.
This year’s concert will feature music by composers J.S. Bach, Randall Alan Bass, Vaclav Nelhybel, Mark Sirett and others, according to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga. Pianist and harpsichordist for the evening is Ron Stabinsky and organist is Christopher Johnson. Performance Music’s fully restored Steinway grand piano and Austin Opus 301 symphonic organ will be heard on the program, and the evening will feature the debut of the department’s newly donated and restored Zuckerman harpsichord. Remarks and readings will be offered by Rev. James Duffy, S.J., M.D., superior for the Scranton Jesuit Community; Robert W. Davis Jr., Ed.D., vice president for University advancement; Leonard Gougeon, Ph.D., professor emeritus, Department of English and Theatre; Hal Baillie, Ph.D., professor emeritus, Philosophy Department; and senior student members of the ensemble.
Outdoor instrumental caroling by members of the University Bands will greet audience members as they arrive, and the University’s Chamber Orchestra, Flute Quartet and organist Christopher Johnson will perform the prelude.
The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles. Because there is no music major at the University, all enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible for membership in the University bands, choirs and string ensembles, with neither an audition nor enrollment fee required for membership. Hundreds of students participate in the ensembles each year.
Performance Music’s large ensembles include Concert/Symphonic Band, Concert Choir/Singers, String Orchestra and Jazz Ensemble (big band format). Smaller groups are made up of members from within the large ensembles, and include Steel Drum Band, String Quartet, Flute Ensemble, Brass Choir, Saxophone Ensemble, Jazz Combo and Percussion Ensemble, plus small vocal groups. Solo, duo and trio performance opportunities are available to members of the ensembles through general recitals each semester.
Other programs within the department, including guest artist concerts, World Premiere Composition Series, the Nelhybel Collection and Scranton Brass Orchestra, closely coordinate programming with the student ensembles and offer unique opportunities for student musicians in the ensembles to hear, observe, interact and perform with numerous world-class musicians and artist-teachers.
Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.
For more information on Noel Night, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music.
Noel Night Concert Set for Dec. 3
In collaboration with The Schemel Forum, The “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project, a National Endowment for the Humanities-funded initiative of The University of Scranton and community partner organizations, is hosting “The Journey from ‘Immigrant’ to Citizen”. The roundtable discussion with local resource speakers will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 7 from 5:30 - 7 p.m. in The Kane Forum, Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Hall, The University of Scranton. This event is a part of the Scranton’s Story project’s “From ‘Immigrant’ to Citizen” theme and will feature four speakers: Jenny Gonzalez Monge, STARS Program Director, Marywood University; Stephanie Longo, author of regional Italian American history; Jack McGuigan, retired English teacher and poet; and Ushu Mukelo, Congolese Community of Scranton.
The roundtable discussion will highlight myriad ways in which people have come to be members of the Scranton community and “citizens” of the larger United States, and will include sharing from those who trace their ancestry to the European immigration of the industrial era to more recent migration from across Latin America and global refugee resettlement. Participants will have an opportunity to engage in discussion and conversations around commonalities as well as differences. Light refreshments will be served. Space is limited and registration is required at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/22Roundtable
“This roundtable will be an opportunity to consider the migration journey of different Scrantonians, their families and communities – in the past and in more recent years – and discuss how immigrants and refugees may be welcomed today,” said Julie Schumacher Cohen, assistant vice president for Community Engagement and Government Affairs and project director.
To further highlight the many journeys to Scranton, project media partner WVIA has created a special website, wvia.org/extraordinaryjourney, which houses the three feature documentaries produced by WVIA, available for public access for the duration of this project. WVIA's "The Extraordinary Journey" Migration Documentary Series series includes:
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"The Extraordinary Journey," a three-episode series on the Eastern Europeans of Northeastern Pennsylvania,
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"The Irish: Two Nations - One Heart," and
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"Paesani: Italian Culture in Northeast Pennsylvania."
"The Extraordinary Journey" series celebrates and preserves Northeast Pennsylvania's European heritage through a poignant blend of first-person storytelling, never-before-seen images, and insightful humanist commentary. The film contributes to WVIA's mission to make distinguished local programming and honors the courageous character our ancestors possessed to create a finer life for us today.
Previous theme events included “All the Places We Come From: Stories, Food, & Community,” a special community story exchange with international writers panel with appetizers and sweets from Scranton's multi-ethnic restaurants hosted on Oct. 25, with130 community members joining at the Scranton Cultural Center, a story exchange facilitated with national partner Narrative 4 at Scranton High School, and a connected Hope Horn Gallery Exhibition, "Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala. Photographs by Byron Maldonado," which will remain on display until mid-December.
Upcoming Scranton Story Winter and Spring 2023 events will focus on Black history and experience, and discuss the religious and ethnic tapestry of Scranton.
For more information and to view upcoming events and recordings of past events, please visit www.scranton.edu/scrantonstory.
Questions? Contact community@scranton.edu or call 570-941-4419.
Follow the Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story project on social media at: Facebook and Instagram @ourscrantonstory and on Twitter at @scrantonstory
Dec. 7 Roundtable to Highlight Migration Journeys to Scranton
The University of Scranton World Languages and Cultures Department is excited to introduce the Fulbright Teaching Assistants and Visiting Instructor for the 2022-2023 academic year:
* P. Magalí Ferrer, Argentinian Fulbright Teaching Assistant (FLTA) from San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina
* Celine Victoria Seeger, German FLTA, from the northern Black Forest of Germany,
* Badoor Albuloushi, Arabic FLTA, from Kuwait,
* Audrey LeCerf, French FLTA, from the north of France near the city of Lille
* Chiang Yun, visiting instructor teaching Mandarin, from Taipei, Taiwan.
For anyone looking for advice on learning another language, these five educators offer helpful information. Learn why they chose The University of Scranton, what they enjoy most about teaching, why they believe learning a new language is important, and more.
Meet World Languages Fulbright Teaching Assistants and Visiting Instructor
Five University of Scranton students were selected as 2022 Sanofi US Excellence in STEM Scholars, which provided support for the students’ summer independent research projects.
The University students named 2022 Sanofi US Excellence in STEM Scholars are: Angela Hudock ’23, Sayre; Michael Quinnan ’23, Shavertown; James Russo ’23, Franklin Square, New York; Olivia Sander ’23, Macungie; and Nathaniel Smith ’23, Wilkes-Barre.
The grant received from Sanofi, which totaled $20,000, supported research and professional development of the five undergraduate students involved in STEM programs. In addition, the support provided stipends to help the students purchase consumables, such as chemicals, specialized software or disposable laboratory supplies, needed in carrying out their summer research.
Studies have shown that students who engage in an independent research project are more likely to complete their STEM majors, graduate, and develop a path to achieve their academic and career goals.
Hudock, a Presidential Scholar at Scranton, is a biochemistry, cell and molecular biology major and a member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM. She is working with her faculty mentors, Michael Fennie, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry, and Katherine Stumpo, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry, on her research project entitled: “Chemical, Physiological, and Behavioral Assessment of Zebrafish Embryo Exposure to Neonicotinoid Pesticide Clothianidin.”
Quinnan, a Presidential Scholar at Scranton, is a biomathematics major and a member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM. On campus, he is a work study student for the Office of Sustainability. He is also working with his faculty mentor, Murong Xu, Ph.D., assistant professor of mathematics, on his research project entitled: “Network Analysis on the spread of COVID-19.”
Russo is a biology and philosophy double major and member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. He is working with his faculty mentor, Amelia Randich, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, on his research project entitled: “Dependence of Prosthecomicrobium hirschii Prosthecate Morphotype on Nutrient Levels.”
Sander is majoring in neuroscience at Scranton. She is working with her faculty mentor, Robert Waldeck, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, on her research project entitled: “The Telencephalon’s Influence on the Startle Response of Goldfish.”
Smith is a neuroscience major and member of the University’s Undergraduate Honors Program and its Magis Honors Program in STEM. He received the University’s O’Hara Award medal for outstanding academic achievement during his freshman year. On campus, he is a work study student for the Office of Sustainability. He is working with his faculty mentor, Marc Seid, Ph.D., professor of biology, on his research project entitled: “Navigational Failures in Ants Due to Agonists/Antagonists of Serotonin.”
Faculty members at Scranton often include undergraduate students in their academic projects. The University’s Faculty Student Research Program also supports undergraduate student participation in research. In addition, students participating in the University’s Honors Program and the Magis Honors Program in STEM work with faculty mentors on research projects.
Sanofi is a global pharmaceutical company that is involved in the research, development, marketing and manufacturing of various medicines and vaccines. Every year, Sanofi offers multiple grants to nonprofit organizations and educational institutions that are working to advance participation in STEM fields.
Students Named Sanofi Excellence in STEM Scholars
All faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to attend the release of the 2022 Living Wage Report on Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Kane Forum, Leahy Hall, rm. 235, The University of Scranton. Lunch will be served. Seating is limited. Registration is required.
The event will include a presentation of the study’s findings, highlight agency leader and community input and provide a space for facilitated discussion around the challenges the study raises and potential solutions. Printed reports will be provided to participants and the digital version of the report will be posted online that day at: www.scranton.edu/livingwage.
The Living Wage Study 2022, a project of The Institute and The University of Scranton (Community Relations, CEEPS, and the Ellacuria Initiative), seeks to understand better what constitutes a living wage in Northeastern Pennsylvania using the MIT Living Wage calculator, other national and regional data, and connecting this data with input from community agencies and insights from Catholic Social Teaching.
A living wage, and the broader concept of family economic security, is defined as the wage rate at which a worker, employed on a full-time basis, can reach a standard of living that meets essential basic needs and allows the individual or family to live a modest but dignified life.
The 2022 Report outlines the living wage threshold for various family compositions in NEPA and compares it to previous data, details the increases in costs of living, explains some of the major challenges facing those who fall below the living wage threshold, and especially highlights mitigating factors – in particular, racial disparities and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related policies on economic security.
Please join us on Nov. 29 by registering here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2022Wage.
2022 Living Wage Report Discussion takes place Nov. 29
University of Scranton students volunteered to pack and deliver 150 food baskets to area families in need as part of its annual Thanksgiving Food Drive organized by the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice. The food baskets included turkeys as well as other food items needed to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
The students gathered at the Friends of the Poor warehouse in South Scranton on Nov. 20 to prepare the food baskets, which they later delivered to families at Valley View Terrace, Bangor Heights and Hilltop Manor in Scranton.
Fox-56 covered this year’s annual Thanksgiving Food Drive in a news story.
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The PILLAR program is still accepting applications from faculty members and students for the Spring 2023 semester. Partners in learning, leadership, and reflection (PILLAR) is a pedagogical partnership program that pairs faculty and students in one-on-one relationships to create, support, and enhance inclusive learning environments that encourage and value all learners at The University of Scranton. The deadline to apply is Friday, Dec. 2.
Who should apply for the PILLAR program?
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Faculty wishing to make their classrooms and teaching more inclusive who are interested in learning from the student perspective
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Students with a vested interest in diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion who are interested in being paid to share their expertise and experience as a student with faculty
All participants will be provided training, resources, and a stipend to support this important work.
Reflections from past PILLAR participants
Here are a few reflections from past PILLAR participants.
“Personally, this partnership has inspired me to engage in a continuous process of self-reflection that has resulted in increasing my knowledge about DEI and improving my teaching pedagogy. In addition to improving my teaching, I am more confident in engaging in the ‘difficult’ discussions or making microaggressions visible within my academic community and in my home life.” – PILLAR faculty partner
"The PILLAR Program has created an avenue through which we can begin to re-imagine pedagogy and begin to move past what has been established as ‘traditional’ ways of teaching. By breaking down the power dynamics of the classroom and the student-teacher relationship, this program has created a space where the experiences, ideas and concerns [of students] are validated. As a student at the university, the program has given me a platform to speak on my perspective as a student and try to cultivate an academic setting that is inclusive, diverse, equitable, and comfortable (for marginalized students).” – PILLAR student partner
Want to participate? Find details here.
For more information, please read the Spring 2023 PILLAR Calendar and the PILLAR Program Guidelines for Student and Faculty Partners (the Student Partner Job Description is on page 5 of the Guidelines and the Faculty Partner Expectations can be found on page 6 of the Guidelines).
* Faculty application: PILLAR faculty partner application
* Student application: PILLAR student partner application
Questions? Contact Jenny Whittaker, PILLAR Program Coordinator, at jennifer.whittaker@scranton.edu, Amelia Randich, PILLAR Program Faculty Coordinator, at amelia.randich@scranton.edu, or Ayana McCalla, PILLAR Program Student Coordinator, at ayana.mccalla@scranton.edu.
Faculty-Student PILLAR Program Deadline Dec. 2
Author and historian Elizabeth Hinton, Ph.D., presented “Riot or Rebellion?: The Meaning of Violent Protest from the 1960s to George Floyd” at this year’s Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities’ Myers Distinguished Visiting Fellow Lecture last month. Dr. Hinton is an associate professor in the Department of History and the Department of African American Studies at Yale University, with a secondary appointment as professor of law at Yale Law School. Her research focuses on the persistence of poverty, racial inequality and urban violence in the 20th century United States.
The annual lecture is named after community leaders Sondra and Morey Myers.
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Sondra Myers (left), director of the Schemel Forum at The University of Scranton, was interviewed by Erika Funke (right) at WVIA about the Wienberg Memorial Library’s 2022 Distinguished Author Award dinner. The Nov. 18 dinner will honor Pulitzer Prize-winning and Tony Award-nominated playwright, novelist and screenwriter Ayad Akhta. The event begins at 6 p.m. in McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center at the University. Proceeds from the event benefit the Friends of the Library Endowment Fund, which supports special gifts for the Weinberg Library collections and services.
For more information and to purchase tickets for the Distinguished Author Award reception and dinner, visit scranton.edu/authaward or contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816 or kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Distinguished Author Award Dinner Discussion Aired
Junior Niamh Healy (Orangeburg, N.Y./Tappan Zee) opened the scoring just under three minutes into the game and The University of Scranton women's soccer (17-2-2) never looked back en route to a 3-0 victory over the Westfield State Owls (16-4-1) in NCAA Tournament Second Round action on Sunday afternoon, Nov. 13, at Weiss Field in Scranton.
With the win, the Royals are headed back to the Sweet 16 for a second straight year and have advanced past the second round for the fourth time in program history.
Scranton will take on the winner of Misericordia/Western New England next weekend at a place and time yet to be determined.
In the third minute, senior Teresa Hegarty (Bryn Mawr, Pa./Merion Mercy Academy) played a ball down the wing to Healy who sent a shot over the head of Owls' goalie Lauryn Davis for her team-leading 11th goal of the season and the early 1-0 lead. Davis was forced to make a save on a shot from sophomore Emily Bannon (Middletown, N.Y./Minisink Valley) just over a minute later as the Royals continued to put the pressure on offensively. With just under 10 minutes to play in the first half, sophomore Samantha Goffice (Gilbertsville, Pa./Boyertown Area) slotted a shot past a diving Davis to give Scranton a 2-0 edge with her third goal of the year.
Head coach Colleen Pivirotto's team held a 10-3 shot advantage through the opening 45 minutes and took the 2-0 lead into the locker room.
Royals' sophomore goalie Nicole Olson (Stoughton, Mass./Ursuline Academy) made a save on Westfield State's Kylee Murphy in the 62nd minute to keep it a two goal game. Then, in the 66th minute, junior Mary Haggerty (Garden City, N.Y./Garden City) delivered a beauty of a free kick into the box and Hegarty headed it home for the 3-0 lead.
The goal was Hegarty's fourth of the season and she also leads the team with eight assists.
Scranton managed a series of quality chances over the final 20 plus minutes and senior Evelyn Bruggeman's (Coatesville, Pa./Bishop Shanahan) nearly made it 4-0 when her shot hit the post in the 78th minute. Olson added one more save in the 85th minute to preserve the shutout victory.
On the day, the Royals held a 25-8 advantage in shots led by seven from Healy.
Olson made two saves to post her 11th shutout of the season, while Davis tallied three saves in 62 plus minutes of action for the Owls.
More information on next weekend's Sweet 16 matchup will be posted at athletics.scranton.edu in the coming days.
Women's Soccer Rolls Past Westfield State in 3-0 Victory; Advances to Sweet 16 for Second Straight Year
The No. 10 University of Scranton women's basketball team (3-0) used a big third quarter to break the game open en route to a 67-51 victory over the Marywood Pacers (1-1) in the Lady Royals' home opener on Tuesday night, Nov. 15, at the John Long Center in Scranton.
With the victory, Scranton remains unbeaten in 40 all-time meetings against the Pacers.
The game also marked the first home win for head coach Ben O'Brien.
Things were even at 10 apiece with just under three minutes to play in the first quarter when senior Bridget Monaghan (Florham Park, N.J./Morristown-Beard) buried a three and junior Allie Lynch (Villanova, Pa./Academy of Notre Dame de Namur) sank a jumper of her own for five straight points as the Lady Royals took a 15-12 lead. After Marywood's Kate Baylor hit a jumper to bring Marywood within four at 24-20 with 4:46 remaining in the second quarter, junior Maddy Ryan (Malvern, Pa./Villa Maria Academy) responded with a basket of her own that ignited a 7-0 run for a 31-20 Scranton lead. A layup from Ryan in the final minute of the quarter gave the hosts a 38-28 advantage at the half.
The lead remained at 10 through the first few minutes of the third quarter before three straight three-pointers from the Lady Royals with two by graduate student Sam Rajza (Plains, Pa./Holy Redeemer) and one by senior Hannah Angelini (Baldwin Place, N.Y./Somers) extended the lead to 51-32 at the 4:37 mark. Angelini later connected on a jumper in the waning seconds for a 55-35 lead after three. Marywood was unable to get any closer than 16 in the fourth quarter and Scranton cruised to a third straight victory on the young season.
Four players reached double figures for the Lady Royals with 20 from Rajza on 8-of-14 shooting (4-of-7 3PT), Ryan with 16, Monaghan with 11 and Angelini with 10.
Angelini added a career-high 10 rebounds, surpassing her previous career-best of nine that was set against Catholic on Feb. 21, 2021.
Monaghan also contributed six rebounds, four assists and three steals.
Savannah Purdy paced Marywood with 14 points on the evening.
O'Brien's team shot 39.4% (28-of-71) from the field and 40.9% (9-of-22) from three-point range, while the Pacers were 20-of-51 (39.2%) from the floor and just 2-of-13 (15.4%) from deep.
Scranton held a 43-33 edge on the glass led by Angelini's 10 boards, eight from Ryan and seven from Rajza.
The Lady Royals are back in action on Saturday against King's College, as part of the annual Cross-County Challenge that will be hosted by Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Opening tip is slated for 1 p.m.
No. 10 Women's Basketball Topples Marywood in Home Opener, 67-51
The Alpha Mu Gamma Language Honors Society is currently accepting applications until Feb. 1. To apply, students must have received two consecutive grades of A or A- in language courses at the 200 level or higher and have a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Once accepted, students will receive a pin at the induction ceremony in the spring and a gold cord upon graduation. Being a member of Alpha Mu Gamma is a lifetime membership. The link to the application is below, and has a $70 fee that must be paid to the World Languages Department by the deadline.
Any questions or concerns can be directed to Dr. Marzia Caporale at marzia.caporale@scranton.edu.
Click to view the application here.
Alpha Mu Gamma Language Honors Society is currently accepting applications
Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a concert featuring The University of Scranton String Orchestra on Friday, Nov. 18, 2022.
The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
(As of this writing masks are optional, but please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.)
At the concert, the String Orchestra will perform arrangements of music by Bruckner, Handel, and Shostakovich, as well as works by contemporary composers Yukiko Nishimura, Soon Hee Newbold, Brian Balmages and William Hofeldt, according to Performance Music Conductor and Co-Director Philip Kuehn.
“The String Orchestra’s repertoire for this concert spans a few centuries and styles, and is sure to include something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you like the classics or the contemporary, you’ll hear it on Nov. 18th,” stated Kuehn.
The University of Scranton String Orchestra is a 30-member string ensemble made up of students from majors spanning the curriculum. The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles. There is no major in music at the University, and all enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible for membership in the University Bands, University Performance Choirs, University String Orchestra and Ensembles, and Steel Drum Ensemble. Neither an audition nor enrollment fee is required for membership.
Other programs within the department, including small ensemble and chamber ensemble music-making opportunities, guest artist concerts, World Premiere Composition Series, the Nelhybel Collection, and Scranton Brass Orchestra, closely coordinate programming with the student ensembles and offer unique opportunities for student musicians in the ensembles to hear, observe, interact, and perform with numerous world-class musicians and artist-teachers. A number of members of the faculty and staff, as well as alumni from the region, also perform with the groups. Each year, hundreds of students participate in the ensembles.
For additional information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music.
Want to go?
What: In Concert: The University of Scranton String Orchestra, presented by Performance Music at The University of Scranton
When: Friday, Nov. 18, 2022 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton
Admission: Free
University String Orchestra performs Nov. 18
Team and club members, classmates and co-workers, family and friends: Gather Sunday, Dec. 4 at 5 p.m. in the Byron Center for The University of Scranton Advent Mass.
After mass, stroll down the commons with your candles lit and get ready for the Tree Lighting on the Dionne Green, followed by Christmas on the Commons. Be the light that reignites an over-40 year tradition!!
Reignite a Royal Advent Tradition
The Princeton Review recognized The University of Scranton among just 455 colleges in the world, for having “strong commitments to the environment in their campus policies, programs and practices” by inclusion in the 2023 edition of “The Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges.” Most of the schools selected for the guide, which was published online in October, are in the U.S., with 26 in Canada, two in Taiwan and one (each) in Ecuador, Egypt, Greece, Ireland, Mexico and Morocco.
This is the fourth year that Scranton has made this list.
The Princeton Review analyzed more than 25 data points to determine the final selection of colleges for the guide based on information from surveys of nearly 713 schools. The criteria broadly covered the schools’ academic offerings and initiatives, campus policies and practices to determine “whether students have a campus quality of life that is both healthy and sustainable; how well a school is preparing students for employment in the clean-energy economy of the 21st century, as well as for citizenship in a world now defined by environmental concerns and opportunities; and how environmentally responsible a school’s policies are.”
Scranton’s long-established sustainability efforts include academics, facilities and community education and outreach. Scranton has infused issues of sustainability in courses across the curriculum, ranging from theology, to business, to the natural sciences, to education, as well as other disciplines. Scranton uses numerous “green” procedures in building maintenance practices, as well as in building design and construction. Scranton currently has three Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified buildings: Leahy Hall, the Loyola Science Center and the DeNaples Center, which became the city’s first LEED certified structure in 2008. Further inspired by Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical titled “On Care for Our Common Home,” the University also conducts multiple community educational programs organized through its Office of Sustainability, which include Bike Scranton, a community garden, an Earth Day Essay Contest, an Earth Day Fair and an Evening of Environmental Science program for area children and families.
In addition, the Sustainability Office began a Work Study Program that engages work-study students in service-learning opportunities to help them grow in knowledge practical applications of sustainability concepts taught in their classes.
In addition to its “Guide to Green Colleges,” The Princeton Review has listed Scranton in its “Best Colleges” guidebooks for 21 consecutive years, also ranking Scranton in its 2023 edition among the nation’s “Best Science Lab Facilities” (No. 7) and “Best Campus Food” (No. 25).
University of Scranton Recognized for Sustainability
The University of Scranton and Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York, have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish new academic relationships and engage in other collaborative programs. Supplemental agreements create opportunities that each school can offer to new undergraduate students enrolling in the fall of 2023.
The memorandum of understanding will allow the Jesuit schools to collaborate in ways that leverage academic strengths, faculty expertise, resources and technology to enhance further the quality and breadth of programs offered to students. The agreement also encourages the exchange of faculty members, research scholars and students, and facilitates jointly organized conferences and other programs, among other items.
Under the innovative agreements, Scranton can enroll up to five qualified students for direct entry into Le Moyne’s Physician Assistant (PA) program after graduation, and Le Moyne can likewise enroll up to five qualified students with a guaranteed seat in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Scranton.
“The Memorandum of Understanding prudently leverages the existing resources and strengths of two sister Jesuit institutions that share a common mission of Catholic higher education,” said Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton. “The supplemental agreements already signed will provide access for our respective students to highly competitive, established programs in much-needed health professions. This is a win-win for our schools, our students and for the patients they will compassionately and competently care for in the future.”
“This relationship will serve our students well and strengthen the work of both Le Moyne College and The University of Scranton in developing health care professionals who are so in need today,” said Linda LeMura, Ph.D., president of Le Moyne College. “I'm proud to be working collaboratively with Scranton on this and look forward to how this initiative will be mutually beneficial to both institutions.”
The direct entry pathway for the PA program at Le Moyne is open to up to five incoming University of Scranton students accepted into its class of 2027 who will major in biology, biochemistry, kinesiology, physiology neuroscience or biochemistry, cell and molecular biology. High school applicants must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 92 and have completed specific high school course requirements. They must also have 50 hours of documented shadowing or patient contact, among other requirements. During their matriculation at Scranton, students admitted to the PA Program pathway must maintain a minimum overall G.P.A., and an overall cumulative science G.P.A. of 3.4 or higher; complete an additional minimum of 700 quality patient contact hours; remain in good moral and ethical standing, and meet other program requirements.
The pathway for the guaranteed seat in the DPT program at The University of Scranton is open to up to five incoming Le Moyne students accepted into its class of 2027 who will major in biology, biochemistry, or similar major that allows for completion of required prerequisite courses. High school applicants must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 92 and have completed specific high school course requirements. During their matriculation at Le Moyne, the students admitted to the DPT Program pathway must maintain a minimum overall G.P.A., and an overall cumulative science G.P.A. of 3.2 or higher; and have verified 30 hours of direct observation of physical therapy patient care; remain in good moral and ethical standing, and meet other program requirements.
Le Moyne’s PA program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) and the Education Department of the State of New York.
Scranton’s DPT program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
For additional information about the direct entry pathway program for the PA program at Le Moyne for Scranton students, contact Joseph Roback, associate vice president for admissions and enrollment, 570-941-4385, joseph.roback@scranton.edu. For additional information about the pathway program for a guaranteed seat in the DPT program at The University of Scranton for Le Moyne students, contact Le Moyne’s Office of Admission at admission@lemoyne.edu or 315-445-4300.
From left: Mary Collins, Ph.D., associate provost, Le Moyne College; James Hannan, Ph.D., provost and vice president for academic affairs, Le Moyne College; Linda LeMura, Ph.D., president, Le Moyne College; Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president, The University of Scranton; Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., interim provost and senior vice president, The University of Scranton; and Gerry Zaboski, senior vice president for the Office of the President, The University of Scranton. In another photo, the presidents exchange school pins.
Scranton/Le Moyne Sign Memorandum of Understanding
The University of Scranton will host a State of Scranton presentation of the 2022 update of the Living Wage Report and a discussion on what it costs to live a modest but dignified life in Northeastern Pennsylvania in 2022. Members of The University of Scranton and greater Scranton area communities are invited to join for this event on Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in The Kane Forum, Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Hall, at The University of Scranton. Lunch will be provided. Registration at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2022Wage
Beginning in 2016, The University of Scranton and The Institute set out to understand better what constitutes a living wage in Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA) and to produce a report that went beyond the poverty rate to analyze what is required for economic security in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The initial 2016 Living Wage report found that the federal minimum wage of $7.25 proved inadequate to enable families in the region to reach a living wage threshold where they can meet their “essential basic needs and live a modest but dignified life.”
This initial report was updated three years later in 2019 and now again in 2022. In addition to up-to-date data, the updated reports also identify key changes in the costs associated with meeting basic needs. Each iteration of the report also includes perspectives from community leaders and new policy recommendations rooted in Catholic Social Teaching on economic justice. The previous report can be found online at: scranton.edu/livingwage.
Presenters at the upcoming State of Scranton will include Andrew Chew, director of research, The Institute; Julie Schumacher Cohen, assistant vice president of Community Engagement & Government Affairs, The University of Scranton; and JoyAnna Hopper, Ph.D., director, Center for Ethics & Excellence in Public Service, The University of Scranton.
"The Living Wage Report has become a socioeconomic gauge for our city and our region. It not only highlights challenges facing our community members in relation to jobs, housing, and food insecurity but also offers potential solutions and action steps for policy makers, community organizations, and all of us as neighbors in Northeastern Pennsylvania," said Schumacher Cohen.
The 2022 Living Wage Report is a collaboration of The Institute and The University of Scranton Office of Community & Government Relations, the Ellacuría Initiative, the Center for Ethics & Excellence in Public Service, and the Department of Political Science.
Upcoming State of Scranton to Share Living Wage Report 2022 Update
Each year, The University of Scranton supports the United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties as they sponsor critical programs to improve the lives of all people in our communities through education, economic mobility and health programs.This year is no exception, and therefore, we are pleased to announce The University of Scranton’s annual United Way fundraising campaign, which will be held through Dec. 9, 2022.
Please join us as we support the United Way as they advocate to meet the needs within our communities:
Helping families and individuals achieve greater self-sufficiency by empowering them with skills and knowledge, providing children and teens with opportunities for quality learning and skill development, and providing all residents the opportunity to achieve optimal physical and mental health while promoting healthy lifestyles and communities.
This year, we again ask you to join us in making the decision to donate to the United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties. Donation information, including convenient payroll deduction will be available on the “my.scranton" portal “Employee Tab” under “University Giving,” or by contacting the Office of Human Resources at (570) 941-7767. Donations will be accepted through Dec. 9.
Together, we can support United Way as they fund 42 programs at 21 local non-profit organizations who take the lead in meeting evolving community needs. We appreciate whatever you can do to help!
To learn more about the programs that the University of Scranton and the United Way have worked to mobilize together, please follow the links below:
United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties VITA Program: click here.
United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties TIPS Program: click here.
University announces annual United Way Campaign
Liva Arts Company is excited to share "Rent" with audiences on Nov. 17 and 18 at 8 p.m., and Nov. 19 at 2 and 8 p.m. The University of Scranton’s student-run musical theatre group, the Liva Arts Company, will present Jonathan Larson’s musical “Rent” at The Royal Theater, McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts.
“Rent” is a Tony Award-winning rock opera based on Larson’s own life and tells the story of young artists and musicians living in New York’s Lower East Side during the 1980s.
Tickets are free for all Scranton undergraduate students (with Royal ID to be presented at the door) and $5 for all others. Tickets can be reserved for will-call at this link: https://livaartscompany.ludus.com. Tickets are only available for reservation at this link, not for immediate purchase. Liva strongly recommends reserving in advance. Please choose "Will Call" at checkout.
Please bring payment (cash or check) to the show date 20 minutes before show time. Tickets that are not claimed 20 minutes before showtime will be sold to the public.
Students and faculty can also pick up and reserve tickets at Liva table-sits on second floor of the DeNaples Center Wednesday, Nov. 16 from 12 to 6 p.m. and Friday, Nov. 18 from 12 to 4 p.m.
Tickets will also be sold at the door.
The Liva Arts Company has been providing musical theatre to the Scranton community since 1990. Questions can be directed to livaartscompany@gmail.com.
Liva Arts Company Presents 'Rent' Nov. 17-19
* Register today: https://forms.office.com/r/0CKKn0t0Xz
* View the Microsoft sessions and resources: https://scranton.edu/microsoft
* Preview Yammer: https://yammer.scranton.edu/
Microsoft Solutions Day for faculty, staff is Nov. 16
Six members of The University of Scranton’s ROTC class of 2023 have earned Distinguished Military Graduate status by the U.S. Army, which designates placement in the top 20 percent of Army ROTC graduates in the nation for this academic year. Their distinction is based on their placement in the Order of Merit List, which ranks graduating ROTC cadets from across the country. The designation requires a superior grade-point average, strong performance in the Army Combat Fitness Test, and proven experience as an exceptional leader in college ROTC training.
“These cadets represent the next generation of our military leaders. They are ambitious, talented, intelligent and enthusiastic. The future of the U.S. Army is in good hands,” said Lt. Col. Jason Wenger, professor of military science who heads Scranton’s Army ROTC battalion. “Scranton’s ROTC program continually places in the top 25 percent in the country because of cadets like these.”
One Scranton cadet, Emma Coar of Dunmore, placed No. 9 in the nation on the Order of Merit list.
“Emma is an exceptional leader and excellent at planning and organization. She continually looks for opportunities to learn and improve herself even more. She has studied foreign languages and has taken on duties as battalion operations officer, which is one of the most competitive leadership positions in our program,” said Lt. Col. Wenger of Coar, who is majoring international studies.
Coar’s classmates who were also named as Distinguished Military Graduates are: Steven Gasperini, an international studies major from Denville, New Jersey; Sarah Kern, a nursing major from Monroe, New York; Declan Maurer, an accounting major and member of the University’s Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program from Whitehouse Station, New Jersey; Josephine Middleton, a biology major from Sugarloaf, and Zachary Turnitza, a nursing major from Cumbola.
Together, the group of six Distinguished Military Graduates know nine languages, including Mandarin Chinese, Arabic and Russian. They have won military awards and participated in ROTC enrichment programs, in addition to maintaining stellar G.P.A.s in their academic courses at Scranton. Each cadet is a Dean’s List student at Scranton.
“Scranton’s ROTC program is smaller, which has given us greater opportunities to participate in the leadership and development initiatives available to cadets,” said Middleton. “All six of us have had military (ROTC) internships.”
In fact, together, the group of six have had a total of 16 internships:
Coar: (3) Cadet Troop Leadership Training, Joint Base Lewis McCord, Washington; Cadet Summer Training 2022; U.S. Army Airborne School;
Gasperini: (3) Cadet Troop Leadership Training, Joint Base Lewis McCord; Cadet Summer Training 2022; US Army Air Assault School;
Kern: (2) Nurse Summer Training Program- Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii; Cadet Summer Training 2022;
Maurer: (3) Cadet Troop Leadership Training, Fort Sill; Opposition Forces Support, Cadet Summer Training 2021; Cadet Summer Training 2022;
Middleton: (2) Army Medical at Joint Base Lewis McCord; Cadet Summer Training 2022;
Turnitza: (3) Nurse Summer Training Program- Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii; Cadet Summer Training 2022; US Army Air Assault School.
Through these internships, the students not only gained experience in different aspects of military service and enhanced their leadership skills, but they also gained experience in their chosen professions. Nursing majors Kern and Turnitza and Middleton, who will pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, gained clinical experiences in military hospital environments that are not common in traditional rotations.
And, there are other benefits of the ROTC program. Maurer credits the fitness regimen for his loss of 60 pounds in his three years of college.
“The ROTC program has developed my communication skills, not only in public speaking or in leading a group of cadets, but also with the more difficult conversations I will have to have with patients as a nurse,” said Turnitza.
“I learned that there is much more to being a leader in the Army than what is shown rallying troops to battle in the movies,” said Gasperini. “There are a lot of different leaderships styles in the military and all are needed. The amalgamation of the different leaders is what makes us strong.”
Additional information about the impressive accomplishments of Scranton’s ROTC class of 2023 Distinguished Military Graduates can be seen here.
But, you had better put on some shades before reading. As you’ll see, the future of the U.S. Army is bright.
Scranton Cadets Earn Distinguished Military Status
Junior Emily Tantala (Langhorne, Pa./Neshaminy) scored the game-winner with just 0:13 left in regulation and The top seeded University of Scranton women's soccer team (16-2-1) captured a third straight Landmark Conference title with a 1-0 victory over the No. 3 seed Drew Rangers (11-6-2) in the conference championship match on Saturday afternoon, Nov. 5, at Weiss Field in Scranton.
This marks the Royals' third straight title, fifth in sixth seasons and the program's ninth Landmark championship overall.
Head coach Colleen Pivirotto's team is headed back to the NCAA Tournament for a sixth straight year and has won a first round game in each of the last four seasons.
In the waning seconds of regulation, senior Teresa Hegarty (Bryn Mawr, Pa./Merion Mercy Academy) fought hard to keep the play alive around a trio of Drew defenders and fed an open Tantala who sent a shot into the upper left corner of the net to seal the victory.
The goal was Tantala's second of the year with both having been game-winners.
Drew nearly took an early lead in the seventh minute, but Royals' sophomore goalie Nicole Olson (Stoughton, Mass./Ursuline Academy) denied Alexa Krause to keep the game scoreless. Just a few minutes later, junior Mary Haggerty (Garden City, N.Y./Garden City) saw her shot saved and the two teams continued to battle through a scoreless first half. Olson once again turned away Krause's attempt from point blank range with a save in the 26th minute and things remained scoreless headed into halftime.
Scranton held a 5-3 shot advantage through the opening 45 minutes.
As the second half began, the Royals mounted the pressure offensively and nearly took the lead in the 63rd minute, but Rangers' goalie Amina Cirkiel recorded consecutive saves on Tantala and fellow junior Niamh Healy (Orangeburg, N.Y./Tappan Zee). Cirkiel later added three more saves in a five minute plus span and the game was still deadlocked at zero as the clock ticked under 15 minutes to play. Scranton continued to threaten and Healy's shot with 1:13 left was denied by Cirkiel. Things looked to be headed to overtime before Tantala struck for the game-winner in the final seconds.
The Royals had a 17-3 shot advantage for the game as the defense remained strong en route to a 14th shutout. The hosts also had 10 corner kicks in the second half and 12 for the game.
Olson tallied two saves in the victory, while Cirkiel recorded six saves for the Rangers in 45 minutes of action.
The 2022 NCAA Division III Field of 64 will be announced in a live selection show on Monday afternoon on NCAA.com with air time slated for 2 p.m.
THREE PEAT! Tantala's Heroics Lead Women's Soccer to Third Straight Landmark Title
The No. 4 seed University of Scranton men's soccer team limited No. 2 seed Elizabethtown to just three shots and used a first half goal from freshman Gavin Scavino (Succasunna, N.J./Gill St. Bernard's) to notch a 1-0 victory over the Blue Jays in Saturday's Landmark Conference title game at Ira R. Herr Field.
This marks the Royals' third Landmark title and the first since 2016. In fact, each of Scranton's previous two titles have also won been at ETown.
Head coach Matt Pivirotto's program is also the second No. 4 seed to win the conference championship and the first since Catholic did so in 2010.
Scranton is headed to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2016 and the 17th time in program history.
Senior center back Brendan King (Lancaster, Pa./Hempfield) helped lead the Royals to a pair of 1-0 shutout victories in the Landmark Tournament and earned MVP honors.
The two teams battled to a defensive stalemate in the early stages of the first half as neither side was able to register a shot until junior Anthony Rizzi (Bloomfield, N.J./Bloomfield) sent one just wide for the Royals in the 10th minute. Rizzi's shot in the 18thminute was turned away by Blue Jays' goalie Kelvin Del Cid and Royals' senior keeper Aidan Hartey (Elkins Park, Pa./St. Joseph's Prep) made a save of his own in the 30thminute when he denied Pedro Guizardi. Following another save by Del Cid in the 35thminute, the Royals struck just over a minute later for a 1-0 lead.
Sophomore Seamus O'Keefe (West Newbury, Mass./Pentucket Regional) gained possession of the ball near midfield, sent a pass to freshman Justin Curran (Media, Pa./The Shipley School) who gave it right back to O'Keefe and the latter found Scavino who slotted it home past a charging Del Cid with a tick over 10 minutes to play in the first half. The goal was Scavino's third of the season with two having come in his last four games.
Holding on to a 1-0 advantage, the Royals were able to limit the Blue Jays to just one shot over the final 45 minutes which came on an attempt from Ryan Hepler that was wide of the target in the 53rd minute.
The game was a physical affair throughout as there were a combined four yellow cards and 38 fouls.
Scranton held an 8-3 shot advantage and Hartey made one save to notch his seventh shutout of the season, which is tops in the Landmark Conference.
Rizzi paced the Royals with three shots on the day.
The 2022 NCAA Division III Field of 64 will be announced in a live selection show on Monday afternoon on NCAA.com with air time slated for 1:30 p.m.
CHAMPS! Strong Defensive Effort Carries Men's Soccer Past ETown in Landmark Title Game, 1-0
The University of Scranton economics professors have published an analysis of the Wyoming Valley of Northeast Pennsylvania’s job and housing market, as well as a look at the cost of living impact inflation has had on household purchasing power in the region.
The analysis, called the Brennan Barometer and completed by Aram Balagyozyan, Ph.D, associate professor of economics, finance and international business, and Satyajit Ghosh, Ph.D., professor of economics, finance and international business, is the second of a series of reports published by the faculty members of the Kania School of Management that look specifically at the economy of NEPA’s Wyoming Valley. The professors plan to publish two comprehensive reports in January and July and two shorter updates: one in fall and one in spring.
“The intent of the series of reports is to make a detailed analysis of economic data specific to NEPA available to area business professionals who might be able to use the information in their industries and organizations,” said Dr. Ghosh, who is frequently quoted about trends in the regional economy in area newspapers and publications.
Data in the most recent Brennan Barometer, published Nov. 8, indicate the unemployment in Lackawanna, Luzerne and Wyoming counties remained relatively unchanged in the period of April to August, 2022, which is the most recent month for which official data is available. The unemployment rate for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre/Hazelton metropolitan statistical area stood at 5.7 percent in April and has fallen to 5.2 percent for July and August, following national and Pennsylvania trends.
The professors noted that the total labor force and the total number of employed workers has continued to increase, while the total number of unemployed workers has declined. Charts published in the report show the total number employed rising from 257,000 in April, 2022, to 260,800 in August and those unemployed decreasing from 15,200 in April to 14,200 in August. They noted the employment growth was in the private sector with service-providing industries in the “Transportation, Warehousing, and Utilities sub-sector” adding about 42 percent of the new private service-sector jobs.
“What is important to note is that in August 2022, the Health Services sub-sector that includes Health Care, Social Assistance, and Hospitals, reported a modest (200) gain of jobs. Normally, this should not be viewed as a significant event. However, historically, this sub-sector has been a very significant source of jobs in the region,” wrote the professors in the report.
Their analysis of the housing market indicated the “tightening of the housing market in Scranton has occurred at faster pace than in the US. Between August 2021 and August 2022, Scranton has shed roughly 25 percent of its housing inventory, while in the United States, this number has declined by only 6.4 percent.” They also noted that “housing prices in the Scranton area outpaced growth of housing prices in Philadelphia and the U.S.” However, the average price of a house in the Scranton area “is much lower than the national average and the Philadelphia market. In August 2022, the value of a typical home in the Scranton area was $178,169, around half as much as it was in Philadelphia ($338,343) or the United States ($354,986).”
In looking at the impact of inflation, the professors reviewed the Cost of Living (or purchasing power) of the average household in Scranton, as compared to the Cost of Living for Brooklyn and Manhattan.
“For example, to have the same standard of living afforded by Scranton’s median household income of $41,687, a household in Queens, New York, would require $64,456, indicating a 55 percent higher cost of living. Similarly, a household income of $103,477 would be needed in Manhattan, New York, to maintain the same standard of living afforded by the median household income of $40,505 of Wilkes-Barre, indicating a 155 percent higher cost of living in Manhattan.”
The professors also noted that “it may not be much of a consolation that the costs of living in the region may be much lower than other big cities in the area if income in the MSA fails to keep up with inflation.”
The full report is available on the University’s website.
Regional Economic Barometer Published
On Saturday, Nov. 12, Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a concert featuring the University’s Symphonic Band. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton.
The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis. (As of this writing masks are optional, but please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.)
The program will include works by Randol Alan Bass, Samuel Hazo, Arturo Marquez, J. Rex Mitchell, Vaclav Nelhybel, Richard Saucedo, Joseph Turrin, and Jack Wilds.
The University of Scranton Symphonic Band is a 70+ member ensemble comprised of members of the university community from majors and departments spanning the curriculum – the vast majority of them undergraduate students, joined by a few graduate students and members of the faculty, staff, and alumni/SBO – none of whom are music majors, who are all brought together by their mutual love of music-making.
The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles, there is no major in music at the University, and all enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible for membership in the University Bands, University Performance Choirs, University String Orchestra & Ensembles, and Steel Drum Ensemble. Each year, hundreds of students participate in the ensembles.
For additional information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music.
Want to attend?
What: In Concert: The University of Scranton Symphonic Band, presented by Performance Music at The University of Scranton
When: Saturday, Nov. 12, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton
Admission: Free
Performance Music Presents University’s Symphonic Band Nov. 12
The Human Resources Foundation in Honesdale awarded a $5,000 grant to The University of Scranton’s Autism Collaborative Center of Excellence to support enhanced advocacy and socialization programming for students with disabilities.
The Autism Collaborative Center of Excellence has collaborated with the University’s Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence and Student Health to enhance and develop programing for students with disabilities to learn advocacy skills, connect and socialize with other students, and become successful leaders in our region.
The grant will support a new Game Night Advocacy Program on campus, which will create socialization opportunities through fun games in an environment that provides tools and skills to enhance student learning. The program, designed to support students with autism and other disabilities, will use popular board games in a safe environment for individuals to practice social skills and learn how to advocate for themselves and others.
The Human Resources Foundation provides financial support to the programs and services of the Human Resources Center (HRC), a nonprofit organization that provides support and services to individuals with disabilities in Wayne, Pike, Carbon, Monroe, Lackawanna, and Susquehanna counties. The Human Resources Foundation also awards public grants to nonprofit and charitable organizations in NEPA to support similar initiatives as that of the HRC.
The University of Scranton is one of five Autism Collaborative Center of Excellence hubs that serve 13 counties in Northeast Pennsylvania.
HR Foundation Grant to Support Advocacy Programs
On Tuesday, Nov. 15 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., The University of Scranton's Commuter Student Association (CSA) in partnership with the Office of Community and Government Relations will host the 2nd annual Java Journey event. This year’s event will expand to offer 70 University students the opportunity to explore seven of the many cafes in Scranton. Each participating student will be assigned to one of the participating Scranton cafes and receive a voucher worth up to $8. This event is open to all University of Scranton students, and registration can be found in Royal Sync or at https://tinyurl.com/27rd7k4n
CSA’s Java Journey is a part of the club’s larger efforts to engage Scranton students with the greater Scranton community and to support local businesses.
“Java Journey is a fun way to get the Scranton community together and support local coffee shops,” said Makenzie Bell ‘23, biology major and CSA president. Other CSA programming events include an annual Restaurant Fest that takes place each spring and will celebrate its third offering this year.
At the core of the CSA mission: Promoting the many businesses in and around the city of Scranton to residents and commuters students at the University. CSA members created this event in the knowledge that local cafes present ideal spots for college students with offerings of free Wi-Fi, specialty coffee and tea drinks, snacks, and in some cases, free parking.
“Java Journey is a way to explore downtown cafes and support small businesses within our community,” said Disha Patel ’24, biology major and CSA community outreach co-chair.
She noted that members love the city and hope to share this concept with students new to Scranton who call the city home during their time at the University. The participating cafes are equally excited to welcome Scranton students. During last year’s inaugural event, they greeted students with balloons, University of Scranton-themed cookies, signs, and more to inspire the students to visit again.
"CSA loves being able to support the local downtown businesses and create a fun way to interact with friends,” said Himani Patel ’24, biology major and CSA community outreach co-chair.
Participating cafes this year will include: Adezzo, the Blackwatch Café, Commonwealth Coffeehouse, Downtown Deli Café, Heaven and Earth Gift Shop and Café, Northern Light Espresso Bar and Café, and Zummo's Café.
Many cafes offer college student discounts. For a listing of Royal ID discounts, The University of Scranton students can visit the Office of Community and Government Relations Royal Card Downtown website at https://www.scranton.edu/about/community-relations/downtown-engagement/downtown-info-discounts.shtml
2nd Annual CSA Java Journey Event Invites Students to Explore Local Cafes
In an occasional series, Royal News spotlights clubs from the university’s 80+ student organizations on campus, speaks to members, and offers information on how to connect with the clubs.
To suggest suggest a club for a future Royal News article, share ideas, or to inform us of any upcoming club events, please email RoyalNews@scranton.edu or Gabriella.petti@scranton.edu
GET INVOLVED
Club: Counseling and Human Services Association
Meet: Anne Murphy ‘23, shown, a senior counseling and human services major from Flemington, New Jersey, and president of the Counseling and Human Services Association.
Connect: @chsa_uofs on Instagram
By: Gabriella Petti ’24, student correspondent
Q: What is the Counseling and Human Services Association mission?
"The Counseling and Human Services Association (CHSA) is a student-run organization associated with the Counseling and Human Services undergraduate program. It aims to further the mission of the university as well as human service professions in general. In the spirit of being "men and women for others," this club is committed to counseling, human service, social justice, and related educational and service initiatives across campus and within the local Scranton community."
Q: Please explain more about counseling and human services.
"Counseling is a profession that involves building good rapport and forming a therapeutic relationship between a counselor and client(s). This profession provides individuals with mental health services, which involves guiding clients through personal and social issues that they are experiencing, or have experienced, by providing them with coping skills and psychoeducation.
The human services field involves providing services, such as food, shelter, mental health, healthcare, and more, to local individuals, families, and communities through government and nonprofit agencies.
Counseling and human services professionals strive to provide services to individuals, families, and groups who are in need of assistance. Their goal is to improve the quality of life and maximize the potential of their clients. The roles of these professionals involve supporting individuals, providing mental health services to clients, advocating for those who are unable to do so for themselves, connecting individuals with local community resources. Individuals within this field have the ability to become licensed professional counselors (LPC), licensed clinical social workers (LCSW), case workers, crisis workers, child abuse workers, community action workers, and more."
Q: What topics do you discuss within the association?
"Some of the topics we discuss in CHSA include mental health, counseling, human services, social justice, self-care, local internship and volunteer opportunities, potential career paths, relevant problems and initiatives within the CHS field and current events."
Q: What does a typical meeting involve?
"Our meetings typically run 30 to 45 minutes. Our members express any questions, concerns, or recommendations that they may have, which usually foster brainstorming and meaningful conversation. Club members then participate in activities such as making cards for Veterans, painting canvas bags for the Catherine McAuley Center’s Period Project initiative, playing a Kahoot about mental health facts, or self-care activities. ... Our members love to participate in the activities and utilize the time to chat with one another and to have fun!"
Q: What, in your opinion, is the club's most exciting event or activity?
"CHSA hosts several significant events and activities, so it is difficult for me to choose a favorite!
CHSA’s most significant event is our annual internship fair. The CHSA Internship Fair allows our club members and other Counseling and Human Services students at The U to connect with human service agencies from the NEPA area and inquire about possible internship and/or volunteer experiences. Each year, this event affords countless students the opportunity to secure internship positions and some students even get offers on the spot.
I think that CHSA self-care night offers a great way for overwhelmed college students, such as myself, to carve time out of their busy schedules to be kind to their minds. This activity involves eating lots of pizza, coloring, drawing, making friendship bracelets, participating in a guided meditation, listening to music, doing face masks, and connecting with other members."
Q: Why would you encourage someone to join?
"It is a great way for those who are interested in counseling and human services issues and initiatives to fuel their passion and help make a positive difference in the lives of others and the local community. Also, CHSA welcomes all students, regardless of their major(s) or minor(s), so it is a great way to connect."
Q: Why did you join?
"I was originally drawn to the club based on the diverse volunteer opportunities and fun events that it organizes, because being involved on campus is very important to me. It has been a great way for me to meet new people, make great friends, and to form meaningful connections with the Counseling and Human Services faculty, especially our club advisor, Dr. [Paul A.] Datti."
Q: When and where does the Association meet?
"CHSA meets once or twice each month on Mondays at 8 p.m. in St. Thomas Hall, Room 312. We also host several events and activities that take place throughout each month for our members to attend."
Shown, association member Fiori Tannenbaum '23, makes a special delivery to Gino J. Merli Veterans' Center residents. Thank you notes for Veterans were created by the University's Counseling & Human Services Association volunteers.
Club Spotlight: Counseling and Human Services Association assists in the community
Students attending the cultural event “Celebrate Argentina” experienced traditional food and beverages, games, art and trivia. The cultural event on October 26 was led by Fulbright Teaching Assistant, Magalí Ferrer.
Various stations were set up with the goal of informing students about Argentina through an engaging process.
At the first station students could prepare a traditional Argentinian beverage known as mate. A hot drink, like tea, mate is sipped through a shared metal straw from a specific type of cup filled with yerba. Posters placed around the station explained how to prepare the drink, and a memory game involved vocabulary about mate.
The second station involved the preparation of a symbol recognized throughout the country: a gaucho, an Argentinian cowboy hat.
“Making the hats was everyone's favorite,” Carmen Acosta, a Spanish tutor, said.
The third station focused on making rosettes, a national symbol usually worn by all Argentinians on important dates like Independence Day. Students were able to create them with paper.
At the fourth station, students played traditional Argentinian card games “Chancho Va” or “La Casita Robada” and recited challenging tongue twisters.
The last station included games such as popping balloons in pairs, searching for candy in plates full of flour, and tug of war.
To end the night, a trivia game tested participants on their knowledge about Argentina.
"It was so much fun! The activities Magali chose for the event really kept everyone engaged," said Claudia Campo Mirabent, a Spanish and French tutor at the Language Learning Center.
“I believe these events are important for the whole university community since they can experience other cultures from a native's perspective and interact with them," Ferrer said. "Not only are these events culturally rich, but they promote the attendees' empathy and understanding toward other nations and cultures.”
Students attend event that celebrates Argentinian culture
Author, educator and Association of Marquette University Women (AMUW) Chair of Humanistic Studies Mariana Ortega will present a guest lecture on Thursday, Dec. 1 at The University of Scranton. Her topic, "Listening to Sorrow in Border Cantos," engages the exhibit "Border Cantos" by Richard Misrach and Guillermo Galindo, which illustrates the process of honoring and mourning those who perish crossing the Mexico-U.S. border in search for better lives.
On Dec. 1 at 5:30 p.m. at the Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall 228, Ortega will discuss the importance of both visuality and sound in the mourning process. All are welcome to attend, and light refreshments will be available.
The Latin American and Latinx Studies Program and the Department of English and Theatre at the University have made this event possible, with support from the College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s office and a Diversity Initiatives Grant from the Office of Equity and Diversity and The Gail and Francis Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities.
What can attendees expect to learn?
"Listening to Sorrow in Border Cantos" explores how the aesthetic may serve as a response to abjection, violence and marginalization, and how photographic practices open the possibility for re-orienting our cognitive, sensory, and affective ways of being in the world.
In addition to her role at Marquette University, Ortega has authored "In-Between: Latina Feminist Phenomenology, Multiplicity, and the Self" (SUNY, 2016), and serves as Associate Professor of Philosophy; Women’s Gender, and Sexualities Studies; and Latino/a Studies at Penn State University. She works on Latina/x Feminisms, Phenomenology, Critical Philosophy of Race, and Aesthetics.
Ortega serves as co-editor with Andrea Pitts and José Medina of "Theories of the Flesh: Latinx and Latin American Feminisms, Transformation and Resistance" (Oxford University Press, 2020); and co-editor with Linda Martín-Alcoff of "Constructing the Nation: A Race and Nationalism Reader" (SUNY, 2009). She is the founder and director of the Latina/x Feminisms Roundtable.
For additional detail, visit: "Listening to Sorrow in Border Cantos".
Guest Lecturer Mariana Ortega Presents 'Listening to Sorrow in Border Cantos'
Curtis Zunigha, an enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians (Oklahoma) and co-founder/co-director of the Lenape Center in New York City, will share the story, experiences, music and legacy of the Lenape at a series of events on Thursday, Nov. 17, and Friday, Nov. 18.
Zunigha will present “Forced Removal of the Lenape People: History and Homecoming” at a Keynote Lecture Thursday, Nov. 17, at 7 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center on the University’s campus. The talk is free and open to the public. Zunigha will share his experience and mission to heal the wounds of forced removal and colonization and his desire to restore the circle of friendship, respect and shared occupancy. This lecture is part of the Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story initiative funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and supported by a Diversity Initiatives Grant through the University’s Office of Equity and Diversity.
On Friday, Nov. 18, a noon Diversity and Inclusion Lunch and Learn for University faculty and staff will feature a special presentation and musical performance by Zunigha. He will share his traditions and the present-day culture of the Lenape people. Reservations are required to attend the luncheon hosted by the Office of Equity and Diversity in the Kane Forum. Faculty and staff may contact diversity@scranton.edu or call 570-941-6645 with questions and to register.
During his visit to Scranton, Zunigha will also speak to students at Northeast Intermediate School, in addition to meetings with local government officials and University and community stakeholders. The intent of the events and meetings is to foster deeper learning and engagement in ways that honor Indigenous peoples and cultures, and the history and ongoing legacy and impact of colonialism.
An expert on Delaware/Lenape culture, language and traditional practices, Zunigha has more than 35 years of experience in tribal government and administration, community development, telecommunications and cultural preservation. He is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
The Lenape Center promotes the history and culture of people through the arts, environmental activism, social justice and agricultural practices. The Lenape Center’s work represents the return of the original Indigenous people to their original homeland of Lenapehoking, which includes areas of New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.
“Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” seeks to capture the unique narrative of Scranton and relate it to the history of the United States prior to the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The ongoing, two-year project incorporates eight themes, including how Scranton has been portrayed in the popular imagination, its industrial era growth, Indigenous history, religious tapestry, diverse immigrant populations – past and present – and the role it played in the Underground Railroad and Black history.
Lenape History, Heritage, Experiences and Culture Shared
The University of Scranton has appointed 21 new full-time faculty members for the 2022-2023 academic year.
Wesam Alramadeen, Ph.D. cand., was named as an instructor in the Operations and Analytics Department. He joined the University faculty as a lecturer in 2021. Previously, he worked internationally for more than two decades as a business development and strategy partner, telecommunications commissioner, consultant and senior engineer, among other positions. He earned a bachelor’s degree in electronic engineering-telecommunication from Mutah University in Jordan, an MBA from German Jordanian University in Jordan, and is pursuing a Ph.D. in industrial and systems engineering at Binghamton University.
Ran An, Ph.D., was named assistant professor in the Health and Human Performance Department. She comes to Scranton from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where she was a course instructor of fluency and voice disorders. Previously, she was an associate and assistant professor at Dalian Ocean University in China, where she also was director of two English undergraduate programs and vice dean of the English Department. She also was an instructor at Dongbei University of Finance and has published extensively on the subject of stuttering as well as on several linguistics topics. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English and international business and her Master of Arts in foreign language studies and applied language studies at Dongbei University of Finance and Economics. She earned her Ph.D. at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
Uzoamaka Anyiwo, Ph.D., was named associate professor in the History Department. Most recently a professor of politics and history at Curry College and before that the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, she is an award-winning, innovative teacher and researcher who specializes in using historical methods to explore racial and gender stereotypes. Other research specialties include contemporary, Colonial and antebellum U.S. history, film history, the history of the vampire and popular culture/film. She has an extensive presentation and paper history on the subject of vampires, pop culture and black womanhood. She earned her bachelor’s degree in American studies and politics and her Ph.D. at the University of Wales Swansea, where her dissertation analyzed the dominant stereotypes of African-American women from the 16th century to present.
Anthony Betancourt, Ph.D., was named assistant professor in the Psychology Department. The founder and chief executive officer of ABLE Research LLC in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, Dr. Betancourt brings back to Scranton expertise in the subjects of bullying, scientific racism, learning disabilities and economic inequality. He has taught at the City College of New York and won a coveted fellowship at the City University of New York teaching undergraduate psychology. He conducted research on socio-emotional and motivational variables that influence students’ preparedness for higher education and/or the workplace. Dr. Betancourt earned his Bachelor of Science in psychology at The University of Scranton, his Master of Arts in general theoretical psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson University, and both his Master of Philosophy and his Ph.D. in educational psychology at the City University of New York.
Michele Boland was named lecturer in the Nursing Department. She previously served on the nursing faculty for the for the Practical Nursing Program of the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County and joins the University after serving as adjunct faculty and a clinical instructor. Boland has had a lengthy hospital career, including tenures as a registered home health care and hospice nurse, home hospice nurse, charge nurse in intensive care, clinical resource manager and nursing supervisor. Boland earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from the University of Delaware and Master of Science degree in nursing education at the University of Phoenix. She is certified as a CPR instructor and in oncology/chemotherapy.
Joe Brague, Ph.D., was named assistant professor in the Biology Department. An accomplished researcher, writer and lecturer, he most recently studied dopamine-mediated synaptic plasticity in the context of Parkinson’s disease and has published prolific research on how hormones influence behavior in the Syrian hamster. He is currently pursuing how biological sex contributes to Parkinson’s Disease. Dr. Brague was most recently a post-doctoral scholar and adjunct professor in neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience and biology at The University of Scranton and his Ph.D. in integrative biology: neuroscience track, at Lehigh University.
Laura Skoronski Chavez, Ph.D., was named assistant professor in the Nursing Department. Dr. Chavez brings to the University clinical expertise in emergency nursing and nurse education and educational expertise in nurse educator preparation, curriculum development, educational administration, simulation development, preparation and administration, nursing research and online course preparation. She was formerly on the nursing faculty at Wilkes University and an adjunct faculty member at the University. Chavez earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at The University of Scranton, her master’s degree in nursing education at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., and her Ph.D. in nursing at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
Kate Cummings was named assistant professor and research and instruction librarian for the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Memorial Library. She was previously library director and an electronic resources librarian at Luzerne County Community College. She has held two elected positions on the board of directors of the Pennsylvania Library Association and is a member of the American Library Association. She is an accomplished presenter whose topics have included diversity, equity and inclusion in libraries, and outcomes and assessment. She earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration (accounting) at the University of Maine, a Master of Business Administration at Wilkes University and a Master of Library and Information Science at the University of South Carolina.
Stephanie DeNaples was named faculty specialist in the Occupational Therapy Department. She currently works with Neighborworks NEPA and previously served as an occupational therapist at Lehigh Valley Health Network and has been an adjunct instructor in occupational therapy at the University. She also served as an occupational therapist for Coordinated Health, Therapy Unlimited, the Geisinger Health System and St. Luke’s University Health System. She is the founder of We Ride NEPA, an organization that promotes occupational independence in leisure by modifying motorized ride-on vehicles for children. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in health sciences and Master of Science in occupational therapy at The University of Scranton. She is completing a post-professional clinical doctorate at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah.
Kenneth Dudeck was named visiting assistant professor in the Physics and Engineering Department. He was previously an associate professor at Pennsylvania State University in Hazleton and works as an electrical engineering consultant for local manufacturing industries. An accomplished researcher with a notable publication history, he also spent 10 years as a consultant for the Naval Air Warfare Center at Patuxent River, Maryland., and has been a research fellow at the Naval Air Development Center in Warminster. His career also included the titles of microwave and controls engineer at Damaskos Inc. in Chadds Ford, electromagnetic interference and compatibility engineer at General Electric, and electrical engineer at Gould Ocean Systems Division in Cleveland, Ohio. He earned his Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering at Pennsylvania State University and his master’s degree in electrical engineering at Villanova University.
Daniel Jackowitz was named visiting assistant professor in the Computing Sciences Department. He comes to the University from SeatGeek in New York City, where he solved interesting data problems in the ticketing. Before that he was a senior software engineer for Datadog and Tumblr, both in New York City, and a software engineer for The New York Times. He has served as adjunct faculty in computing sciences at the University, where he designed and taught a graduate special topics course titled “Introduction to Big Data Platforms.” He was a teaching fellow in operating system engineering at Yale University. Jackowitz earned his Bachelor of Science in computer science and his Master of Science in software engineering at The University of Scranton and his Master of Science in computer science at Yale University.
Riddhiman Medhi, Ph.D., was named assistant professor of inorganic chemistry in the Chemistry Department. A committed teacher and researcher as well as a collaborative scientist, Dr. Medhi brings a broad background in materials chemistry and joins the University after serving as a post-doctoral associate at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, where he worked to develop anti-fouling surface coatings and anti-toxin fabrics. He has applied for two U.S. patents, has published and presented on numerous occasions, and is a member of the American Chemical Society. He earned both Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in chemistry from Gauhati University in Guwahati, India, and a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Houston, where he was a graduate research assistant, and served as a teaching assistant. At Houston, his research on optical nanomaterials earned him the Graduate Student Research Award, and the prestigious Dan E. Wells Outstanding Dissertation Award.
Pedro Monteiro, Ph.D., was named assistant professor in the Economics/Finance Department. A chartered financial analyst (C.F.A.) since 2018, he worked in the financial sector prior to pursuing Ph.D. studies. He served in a multitude of roles, including fixed income analyst, structurer of derivatives products, and private wealth manager. Dr. Monteiro has published and working papers covering different aspects of finance, including hedge funds, corporate short-termism, international markets and entrepreneurial finance. He has taught Principles of Financial Management, Financial Institutions and Advanced Managerial Finance courses at the College of Business at Florida Atlantic University, where he received the singular 2021 Excellence in Ph.D. Student Teaching Award. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in business at Pontifical Catholic University in Rio de Janeiro. He earned his Master of Science in finance and Ph.D. in finance at Florida Atlantic University.
Julie Murphy, Ph.D., was named assistant professor in the Nursing Department. She previously served as an assistant professor at Wilkes University and assistant professor and director of the RN to BS in Nursing Program at King’s College. She also served on the faculty of the practical nursing program at the Wilkes-Barre Area Career and Technical Center, where she was the lead instructor for medical surgical courses. Dr. Murphy has been a registered nurse in the local area for many years and has presented at local and national conferences on heart failure, end-of-life care and advance care planning. She earned an Associate of Applied Science in nursing at Luzerne County Community College, a Bachelor of Science in nursing at Pennsylvania State University, a Master of Science in nursing at Misericordia University, a Master of Science in nursing with nurse educator and faculty roles specialization at Drexel University, and a Ph.D. in nursing at Pennsylvania State University. She has recently received a post-master’s degree certificate as a primary mental health care nurse practitioner at Wilkes University.
Michael Nytz, Ph.D., cand., was named lecturer in the Counseling and Human Services Department. A licensed professional counselor (L.P.C.), he was most recently a certified school guidance counselor at Lower Macungie Middle School and teaching assistant at the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Kentucky. Prior to that, he was a clinical case manager at Wordsworth Academy and a residential counselor at Woods School. Nytz also was a military officer for 13 years and served three years on active duty. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Warner Southern College in Lake Wales, Florida, a master’s degree in counseling at Trenton State College in Trenton, New Jersey., and is a Ph.D. candidate in counselor education at the University of the Cumberlands. He also earned an elementary guidance certificate at Kutztown University, a cognitive behavioral therapy certificate from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and a trauma certificate of advanced graduate studies at Chestnut Hill College. He has a secondary guidance certificate from the University.
Jason Phillips was named faculty specialist in the Nursing Department. He was most recently a certified registered nurse practitioner at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in Philadelphia and previously worked for the Einstein Healthcare Network, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, the University Medical Center of Princeton at Plainsboro and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies at Wright State University in Dayton, then an Associate’s of Applied Science in nursing at Luzerne County Community College, a Bachelor of Science in nursing at Pennsylvania State University Worthington Scranton, and Master of Science in nursing in the Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia.
Timothy Powers was named lecturer in the Counseling and Human Services Department. He has been an adjunct instructor of social sciences at the State University of New York at Orange and at Mount St. Mary College in Newburgh, New York. He also worked as a private-practice mental health counselor in Middletown and New York, New York, taught religious studies at Xavier High School in New York, New York., and served in assignments in the Bronx, Wilmington, Delaware, and Silver Spring, Maryland, while a Franciscan Friar. He also was director of campus ministries at John S. Burke Catholic High School in Goshen, New York. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in history and religious studies and Master of Science in counseling at The University of Scranton, a graduate certificate in theological studies at Washington Theological Union in Washington, D.C., and a Master of Social Work at New York University.
Mojib Saei, Ph.D., was named assistant professor in the Physics and Engineering Department. He comes to the University from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, where he was a visiting professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. He also has been a faculty member at Ivy Tech Community College. He served as a researcher in the Scalable Micro Nano Manufacturing Laboratory as well as the Center for Materials Processing and Tribology at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. He has published several peer-reviewed journal articles about nanomaterials, multi-layer composites, 3D printing, laser processing and flexible electronics, amassing a total of 23 journal publications and filing one U.S. patent. He earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees, one in materials engineering and another one in industrial engineering, a master’s degree in materials engineering and a Ph.D. in industrial engineering-manufacturing at Purdue University.
Rebecca Sullivan, Ph.D. cand., was named lecturer in the Education Department. She was most recently adjunct faculty in philosophy at Fordham University and has been a course assistant at the Steinhardt School of Education at New York University and a teaching assistant at both Barnard College and Teachers College of Columbia University. She also has been adjunct faculty at the State University of New York at New Paltz and Queens College of the City University of New York. Sullivan has numerous publication and presentation credits and worked as an academic publishing associate and editor at EdLab, Teachers College Record, at Columbia University, was a writing coach, and worked as an educational program leader for the Brox Educational Foundation. She earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and English literature and a master’s degree in philosophy and education at the University of Notre Dame and a master’s in philosophy and education at Columbia University, where she is a Ph.D. candidate.
Elizabeth Vento, Ph.D., was named visiting assistant professor in the Psychology Department. She has provided clinical care in hospital and community-based clinics and has also provided clinical research support for SAMHSA's national epidemiology studies of psychological disorders. Before starting her Ph.D. studies, she was a public-school teacher in Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Vento earned a Bachelor of Arts dual degree in literature and creative writing at the State University of New York, Purchase College; a Master of Arts in clinical psychology at St. John's University; a post-baccalaureate certificate in psychology at Columbia University; and a Master of Science in education at the College of New Rochelle. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at St. John’s University.
Laura Zagacki, D.H.S. cand., was named assistant professor in the Occupational Therapy Department. She was most recently therapy manager at Good Shepherd Specialty Hospital in Bethlehem, where she previously worked as a pediatric occupational therapist. She has been a pediatrics occupational therapist, an early intervention occupational therapist, and a school occupational therapist in the Hatboro-Horsham and Wissahickon school districts. She held occupational therapist positions at Moss Rehabilitation Hospital in Philadelphia and Elkins Park and served on the Research Committee Task Force in the Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital Network. She has an extensive teaching, research, publications and presentation background. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in behavioral neuroscience at Lafayette College, where she was a Phi Beta Kappa Society member, and a Master of Science in occupational therapy at Thomas Jefferson University. She is a candidate for a Doctorate of Health Sciences in rehabilitation sciences at Drexel University.
University of Scranton Appoints New Faculty Members
By: Kelly Nee '23, student correspondent
Professor John Wiercinski, MHA, FACHE, is a full-time Faculty Specialist in the graduate and undergraduate programs for Health Administration and Human Resources in the J. A. Panuska College of Professional Studies. Wiercinski '83 earned a Master of Hospital and Health Administration from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Bachelor of Science at The University of Scranton. Prior to joining the University full time in 2016, Wiercinski worked as a healthcare administrator for more than 30 years.
Here, he discusses the importance of a degree in healthcare administration, what it means to receive a Jesuit education, and the benefits of the accredited healthcare administration program here at the university.
How do you think the university's Jesuit mission has impacted your time as a professor?
"I am a product of a Jesuit high school and Jesuit universities for both for my undergrad and graduate degrees, so I clearly believe in the Jesuit focus on education and making a difference in the lives of others. I believe that a Jesuit education comes with a unique identity in focusing on a transformative educational experience. The focus of the Ignatian tradition is essential to developing individuals who are committed to the betterment of humanity.
In our pursuit of educational excellence, we hope to reinforce the characteristics of truth, ethics, and that decency toward others is not mutually exclusive of our selected professional work. A Jesuit education brings with it a responsibility of helping students connect with a commitment to a higher power through being servant leaders and having a positive impact on the world in which we live."
What is your favorite comment ever received on a course evaluation?
"I appreciate all the comments but one that stuck with me was: "Your course was life changing, not only for what I learned, but also for how I should embrace life."
Why should students consider a major in HEalthcare administration?
"Healthcare affects everyone, and it should be viewed as a basic right for everyone. I feel that our program teaches the importance of providing high-quality, cost-effective healthcare through managing the delivery of the continuum of services that we call the healthcare system. Throughout society, healthcare is at the core of a healthy, productive, and progressive population.
The program at The University of Scranton is one of the most recognized in the country, CAHME accredited, and staffed by a group of professors and adjuncts who have dedicated their lives to making a difference in the delivery of these services. A degree in healthcare administration exposes students to managerial principles, varied delivery platforms, medical ethics, financial analysis, human resources, strategic planning, healthcare law, marketing, and most importantly, being involved in a career that positively affects the lives of others."
What do you specifically bring to your department?
"Probably a question better answered by my students and colleagues. Having a fair amount of experience over a 30-plus year career as a healthcare administrator, I feel that I bring a level of expertise and understanding to the classroom through my teaching style."
How would you describe your personal teaching philosophy?
"My teaching philosophy involves so much more than the course content and what students find in their assigned textbooks. I also believe in teaching life lessons. I like to let students know (through my personal experience) that at times the world will not be perfect, and that one bad experience or chapter in their life does not necessarily represent the rest of the book.
I like to teach students that we can't control everything, but we can control how we respond to those situations. It's more important how we mend ourselves during those times of brokenness that matter. I am blessed to be able to pass on my healthcare expertise as well as the trial, tribulations, and survival of the human spirit. In essence, the Japanese definition of Kintsugi: That we can be more beautiful for having been broken."
What has been the biggest accomplishment of your career?
"I never accept sole credit for any accomplishments I achieved as a hospital administrator. Employees never worked for me, they worked with me. It was that collective approach in providing healthcare services to communities, improving the viability of financially-stressed healthcare facilities, and providing much needed healthcare services to underserved communities that were accomplishments. With that said, I think my biggest accomplishment is now, through the ability to connect with my students. As an instructor, I believe that my responsibility does not end in the classroom. Being present for others is an accomplishment."
Meet Professor John Wiercinski
A fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, John Wiercinski also was past Regional Pennsylvania Delegate to the American Hospital Association. Currently he serves on the boards of the St. Joseph Center Foundation, Lackawanna/Susquehanna Behavioral Health Intellectual Disabilities Early Intervention Program, and The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. He was past board chairperson for both The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Lackawanna College.
Prior to joining the University full time in 2016, Wiercinski worked as a healthcare administrator for more than 30 years, most recently as Regional Vice President for Geisinger Northeast. Previously, he was President/CEO for Shamokin Area Community Hospital, and COO for Bradford Regional Medical Center.
Wiercinski also served as Director of the Bureau of Health Planning for Governor Robert Casey, and as an Assistant Administrator/Captain at U.S. Air Force Hospital, Dover, Delaware.
On the Lighter Side
Wiercinski was recently asked to be the Faculty Mentor to the University's women's volleyball team. He described this role as "an incredibly rewarding experience."
Who is your favorite musician?
"Bob Dylan. An individual whose lyrics and writings influenced so many in this world, that he was awarded the Noble Prize in literature. His contribution to music, moral issues, and conscience is unparalleled in history. The poet of a generation."
FACULTY PROFILE: A Conversation with Professor John Wiercinski
Sophomore Emily Bannon (Middletown, N.Y./Minisink Valley) scored the eventual game-winner in the 95th minute in the first overtime period and The University of Scranton top-seeded women's soccer team (15-2-1) held on for a 1-0 victory over the No. 4 seed Catholic University Cardinals (3-10-5) in the Landmark Conference semifinals on Tuesday night, Nov. 1, at Weiss Field in Scranton.
The Royals advance to Saturday's Landmark title game versus No. 3 Drew at Weiss Field with start time yet to be determined. The Rangers advanced with a 1-0 overtime victory as Alexa Krause scored the game winner in the 105th minute.
Bannon was able to tap one home in front of goal after an impressive pass from the corner by senior Teresa Hegarty (Bryn Mawr, Pa./Merion Mercy Academy) found its way to the sophomore and Catholic goalie Ava Rieger was caught out of position. Prior to the pass, Hegarty did well to beat a pair of Cardinal defenders with some nifty footwork.
The goal was Bannon's fifth of the season, while Hegarty registered her team-leading sixth assist.
New overtime rules were implemented in NCAA soccer this year as teams must now play through both 10 minute overtime periods as opposed to the previous golden goal format.
The Royals threatened from the get-go in this one as Rieger made a pair of saves in the fourth minute on juniors Mary Haggerty (Garden City, N.Y./Garden City) and Claire Mulholland (Marlton, N.J./Cherokee). On the other side, Scranton's sophomore goalie Nicole Olson (Stoughton, Mass./Ursuline Academy) made a pair of saves in the 22nd and 26th minutes to keep the game scoreless for the time being. In the 31st minute, Scranton nearly took the lead in a sequence where Rieger turned away an initial shot by junior Niamh Healy (Orangeburg, N.Y./Tappan Zee), Haggerty saw a shot cleared off the goal line by a Cardinals defender and the goalie added a second save on Healy.
Scranton held a 13-4 shot advantage, but things remained scoreless through the opening 45 minutes.
In the first 15 plus minutes of the second half, Rieger tallied three more saves and Olson added a save of her own on Catholic's Jordan Siok in the 58th minute. Head coach Colleen Pivirotto's team continued to mount the pressure offensively, but it was the Cardinals that nearly took the lead in the 81st minute as Sara Placide's header trickled just wide of the target. From there, Hegarty saw her shot ring off the crossbar in the 86th minute and the two teams headed for overtime.
In the first overtime period, Bannon provided the afore-mentioned heroics in the 95th minute and the Royals' defense put forth a strong effort to hold Catholic without a shot over the final 20 minutes of the match to seal a berth in Saturday's title game.
The Royals held a 29-6 shot advantage in the contest led by nine from Healy and four from Hegarty.
Olson recorded three saves to notch her eighth shutout of the season, while Rieger made 15 saves in the setback for Catholic.
A full preview of this weekend's Landmark Championship game will be posted on Friday at athletics.scranton.edu.
Bannon's Overtime Heroics Send Women's Soccer Past Catholic in Landmark Semis, 1-0
Laurel Coyle '11 has become one of the leading figures in corporate American communications within a decade of receiving her bachelor’s degree in public relations from The University of Scranton. Today, she is the Head of Internal Communications for Chase Consumer Banking, a division of JPMorgan Chase, which has 47,000 employees and 4,800 branches across the country in 48 states.
“You can be the smartest person in the room, but if you can’t communicate properly or you can’t relate to other people, then you are not going to be successful in the real world,” said Coyle. “In today’s world, if you can’t be empathetic and understanding, if you can’t put yourself in someone else’s shoes, especially as a communicator, you’re not going to succeed.”
The summer before her senior year at the University Coyle first began working for J.P. Morgan as an intern on the investment bank division’s event marketing team. There, she and her teammates serviced their client base and supported elite events for the top 100 clients in the investment bank. Coyle interned again during the intersession of her senior year at the University and was promptly offered a job before she graduated in 2011, and she steadily worked her way up from that initial position to her current role.
“My team is responsible for communicating to those 47,000 employees and ensuring they know what our priorities are, why we do what we do,” Coyle said. “When we plant the Chase flag in communities, we show up and provide financial health and wellness to all Americans.”
In her current role, Coyle is responsible for business communication plans, employee enegagements and everything in between. Her work at the Fortune 500 company provides every echelon of J.P. Morgan with the necessary information to carry out the workday.
“As a communicator, people need you, leaders can’t communicate without you, investors don’t know what they are going to do without the words that you are telling them, clients don’t know what to do without the words that you are telling them,” she said. “You sit in a very unique seat.”
Coyle attributes her success to the University and its dedicated professors, especially Assistant Professor of Communication and Media Kimberly Pavlick, Ph. D. G’96.
“I felt that when I was in class, she was talking directly to me. She understood how hard it was to go into school as a freshman and have new responsibilities,” Coyle said. “She was not only a professor, but she was like a friend, someone you could lean on.”
The University is unique in this regard; one of the chief characteristics of a Jesuit education is cura personalis, defined as individual attention to students and respect for the uniqueness of each member of the University community.
“Dr. Pavlick is just one example of the professors at Scranton that just truly care about you,” Coyle said. “They care about your physical and mental wellbeing. They are behind you 100 percent of the way, even when you fall.”
How did a liberal arts and Jesuit education Equip LaureL Coyle '11 with The communication skills critical to her role at a Fortune 500 company?
One of the most critical skills to have as a communicator is the ability to be well-versed in a variety of different subjects and converse about these topics with others. Coyle says the liberal arts and Jesuit education provided her with the opportunity to develop this skill.
“When you go (to the University), they educate the whole person,” she said. “You’re not just learning what your major is, or your minor. You are learning all different things – theology, philosophy, health – things that make you a more well-rounded person.”
This unique type of education that the University provides not only stresses balance in regard to academia, but also socialization. Coyle said that this balance is crucial for the education of the “whole person.”
“The Jesuits in general know how to balance work and fun,” she said. “You’re not just there to lock yourself up in your dorm. They want you to be healthy in that way in which students can let their stress go by hanging out with friends or playing in intramural volleyball.”
The balance between working hard and socializing creates alumni like Coyle who are determined to excel and dedicated to leading empathetically. Coyle has directly applied these skills to her position as Head of Internal Communications, where her work is used to communicate with all employees in the multi-trillion-dollar company.
“I love that the words that I either write down on paper and send out or put in a script for a CEO to read get shared to and by thousands of people,” Coyle said. “It is a privilege and a really huge responsibility.”
Coyle’s responsibilities at J.P. Morgan became essential to the organization in March 2020 when quick and correct communication meant the difference between a successful workday and mass confusion in regard to COVID-19 guidelines, and she says that the pandemic has been the most challenging period of her career thus far.
“I don’t think I slept for an entire year,” Coyle said. “I remember in April 2020, it was Easter Sunday, and my boss said, ‘Put down the phone and go join your family.’ That was the first time I had a break, and the next time I had a break was the 4th of July.”
At the time, Coyle’s role focused solely on branch banking communications.
“That meant that every day there was something new,” she said. “It meant keeping open 4,800 branches and ensuring that 47,000 people were safe and not sick.”
Correct information, sufficient communication, and reliable sources are just a few of the basic necessities required to fulfill Coyle’s responsibilities; the overabundance of information during the pandemic, however, made these necessities impossible to accomplish or receive.
“No one knew what was going on,” Coyle said. “Everyone hung on the words that we said and sometimes those words were wrong because the information from the CDC changed on a dime.”
Despite the confusion, Coyle remained dedicated to the wellbeing of her employees. One of the biggest factors that kept her motivated was the fact that her job was essential.
“I think it was the knowledge that I was making a difference and people needed me,” Coyle said. “We were an essential business because people had to get their money. If I could be home and work while others had to go into one of the branches, the least I could do was get out of bed.”
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Coyle says that the lessons she learned while at Scranton helped her persevere through the pandemic.
“I was taught to care about people and communicate in an effective way that showed that I cared about them,” Coyle said. “At Scranton, we say that we are men and women for others, and that’s what was needed during the pandemic: the need to help people, the need to be there for others, the need to wake up and do the thing that was really hard.”
The lessons instilled at The University of Scranton, be they academic or extracurricular, are vital in establishing its students’ future success; Coyle demonstrates that caring for the whole person is instrumental to establishing success, a quality she defines as building relationships and having meaningful connections with people.
“Life is the thing that happens outside your job,” Coyle said. “Success is my two very best friends in the world that I met at Scranton. Some people lose sight of that, but we are lucky enough to have that ingrained in us at the (University).”
Alumni Spotlight: Laurel Coyle ’11
Registration has opened for the University’s 2022 Presidential Christmas Parties in Washington, D.C., New York City, Philadelphia and Morristown, New Jersey. To register, visit scranton.edu/Christmas.
Washington, D.C., Christmas Reception with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President
December 1
The Mayflower Hotel
District Ballroom
1127 Connecticut Ave NW
Washington, D.C.
NYC Christmas Reception with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President
December 2
The New York Athletic Club
Olympic Room
180 Central Park South
New York, New York
Philadelphia Christmas Reception with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President
December 14
The Bellevue Hotel
Red and Clover Room
200 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA
New Jersey Christmas Reception with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President
December 15
The Madison Hotel
Glenallyn Ballroom
1 Convent Road
Morristown, NJ
For more information, visit scranton.edu/Christmas.
University Opens Registration For Presidential Christmas Parties
When John O’Malley ’87 embarked upon The Tour Divide in support of The Ryan T. O’Malley ’99 Memorial Scholarship June 10, he figured it would take him about a month or so to traverse the race’s grueling 2,665.7-mile route from Alberta, Canada, to the U.S.-Mexico border in New Mexico; that was before, of course, a life-threatening accident about 125 miles from the race’s finish line landed the retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel in an intensive care/trauma unit July 15.
Just 84 days later, on what would have been his brother Ryan’s 45th birthday, O’Malley returned to the scene of the accident determined to finish the race’s final 125 miles.
What happened in-between, of course, might be called a miracle.
“John truly is an iron man,” said Helene O’Malley, John’s mother. “The blessed Mother and Ryan were looking down on him.”
“John is a world-class athlete who completed a world-class endurance cycling event with a world-class effort and … some other-worldly help,” said John “Jack” O’Malley, Ph.D. ’64, professor of psychology emeritus at the University and John’s father. “God is good.”
A Lifelong Love
John’s love of cycling and adventure began when he was growing up in the Green Ridge section of Scranton.
“Bikes were a big deal back then, and if you had one, you were a lucky kid,” he said. “ For me, the bike became an instrument of exploration, discovery and freedom.”
As the oldest child of Dr. O’Malley and Helene, John shared his love of cycling with his five siblings, especially Ryan, his youngest brother.
“As a kid, time and distance had little meaning,” he said of the hours they spent exploring the NEPA area together. “We’d just ride, inspired by the adventure and the natural beauty of the region.”
Upon graduating from the University, John began his military career in Ft. Carson, Colorado, where he started racing mountain bikes. Since then, he has continued to ride and race, competing in triathlons and adventure races throughout the country.
ROAR
After Ryan's passing in 2011, his family established The Ryan T. O’Malley ’99 Memorial Scholarship in his memory to enable Computer Science students of limited resources with an interest in fitness to attend The University of Scranton. Since that time, Ryan's family and friends have raised more than $150,000 for the scholarship, much of it through ROAR: The Ryan O'Malley Annual Race, a 5K fundraising event the family organized from 2013-2017.
When John and his family settled in Monument, Colorado, he became so inspired by the expanses and terrain he saw while on two wheels that he proposed the idea of funding Ryan’s scholarship through an annual bike ride. In 2018, John embarked upon the inaugural ROAR: The Ryan O’Malley Annual Ride by cycling the 500+ miles of The Colorado Trail from Denver to Durango in Ryan’s memory. While John rode The Colorado Trail again for ROAR in 2019 and 2020, he was sidelined by injuries and knee surgery in 2021.
The Tour Divide
On June 10, John embarked upon ROAR: The Ryan O’Malley Annual Ride for the fourth time by participating in The Tour Divide in support of The Ryan T. O’Malley ’99 Memorial Scholarship.The Tour Divide follows the “Great Divide Mountain Bike Route,” a 90 percent off-road trail that follows the Continental Divide through Alberta, British Columbia, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico. Established by the Adventure Cycling Association in 1998, it is considered the most important off-pavement cycling route in the world. Prior to beginning The Tour Divide, John said he was looking forward to riding for “family, community and the well-being of others.”
“I ride to remember and honor our brother, Ryan,” he said. “I ride to give back in some way to the community who nurtured us. Through the ROAR and Ryan’s scholarship, we help to provide students with limited financial resources the opportunity to attend The University of Scranton.”
The Tour Divide’s race clock runs 24 hours a day, and the self-supported riders aren’t allowed any outside help other than the ability to access public facilities along the way. Participating cyclists must carry their camping equipment, food and water through long stretches of remote mountain wilderness, pristine river valleys, open grassland and desert while risking injury, mechanical failure, treacherous weather and encounters with potentially dangerous wildlife.
They also, apparently, need to watch out for dangerous human life.
The Accident
After riding for more than a month in the Tour Divide, John was involved in an accident in the early morning hours of July 15 near Silver City, New Mexico, about a two-day ride from the race’s finish line.
“I was struck by an apparent hit-and-run driver on Hwy 180,” he said. “Although there were no witnesses to the incident, and I remember nothing of the accident, being intubated on-site, nor the Medivac flight, the nature and extent of injuries to both sides of my body, and damage to my bicycle, helmet and other gear verify that this is what happened.
“Hospital staff came to the same conclusion as well, based on my overall condition.”
John was found by two motorists sometime after the accident who alerted the police, and he was airlifted to an intensive care/trauma unit in El Paso, Texas.
“I sustained a traumatic brain injury with a skull fracture and a few subdural hematomas/ subarachnoid hemorrhages,” he said. “A complement of body bruises and cuts, a broken nose, broken molars and some torn cartilage/ligaments (knee and shoulder) complete the ‘needs repair’ list.”
After a 12-day stint in El Paso, where John was joined by his wife, Kathi, his mother-in-law, Karen, and his sister, Julianne Phillipp, M.D. ’91, a Virginia-based pediatrician, he was transferred to a rehab center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he received occupational and cognitive therapy for an additional four days. Since then, he has continued outpatient care with a team of doctors and therapists in Ft. Carson, Colorado, and his recovery has been nothing short of miraculous.
“A CT scan about three weeks ago showed everything was healed up,” John said. “I owe much of my recovery thus far to believing wholeheartedly that I will heal and become stronger … most of this belief comes from the love and support of my family.
“I can also say that being an athlete and a soldier has contributed directly to where I am right now. Coordination, reaction, balance, strength and agility have been developed through training/drills my entire life and helped me immensely during initial evaluation and therapy.”
Crossing The Finish Line
John and Kathi returned to the scene of the accident to finish what he began in June Oct. 7. Although he was quickly greeted by heavy rainfall that transformed the terrain from a navigable dirt path to a thick “peanut butter mud,” he traveled about 80 miles in approximately 10 hours of cycling, leaving him with just 45 miles to go to his goal.
On Oct. 8, John finally crossed the finish line of The Tour Divide 120 days after embarking upon it.
“The Tour Divide is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that stays with you and changes you for the good,” he said. “There is no easy way out there and I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
All things considered, John remains grateful for the experience, especially for the more than $12,000 his efforts raised for Scranton students.
“The greatest / proudest part of the ride was what we raised for Ryan’s scholarship fund,” he said. “To all who pledged – thank you.
“Your kindness fueled me daily out there and will help young men and women receive a great college education.”
O'Malley Recovers From Life-threatening Injuries, Finishes ROAR
A team from BBC World News broadcasted live reports on the upcoming U.S. election from the balcony of the Rose Room of Brennan Hall on the campus of The University of Scranton. Scranton alumnus Ted Tait ’86, chief engineer for BBC, Washington, D.C., Bureau, was among the BBC team who broadcasted live reports and interviews about the election throughout the day on Oct. 31.
University of Scranton Political Science Professor Jean Harris, Ph.D., was among those interviewed by BBC World News America anchor Laura Trevelyan during the broadcast.
University of Scranton students Alexander Nunez, Hackettstown, New Jersey, and Kelly Nee, Hopatcong, New Jersey, both journalism and electronic media majors, served as student ambassadors during the visit. Nee also serves as editor of The Aquinas, Scranton’s student newspaper. The University’s Public Relations Intern, Edward Fargis, an English major from Ho Ho Kus, New Jersey, was also on hand. Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of the University, visited the BBC team during a break in the broadcast.
Trevelyan tweeted a thank you to the University for its hospitality. $content.getChild('content').textValueProfessor Among Those Interviewed by BBC World News
The University has reprinted “Royal Recipes: A University of Scranton Cookbook,” a collection of more than 140 recipes submitted by Scranton alumni, parents, students, friends, faculty and staff.
Copies of the cookbook, first released in 2019, are available for purchase for $25, and $10 of each sale will be donated to the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice Arrupe House. To purchase a cookbook today, visit this link.
University Re-releases 'Royal Recipes: A University of Scranton Cookbook'
The University of Scranton’s Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program seeks to develop future executives who will serve at Northeast Pennsylvania nonprofit institutions. Since beginning in 2017, 47 participants, representing 40 separate regional nonprofit organizations, have graduated from the program.
“The Nonprofit Leadership Certificate is a unique credential that can help graduates advance to executive leadership positions at nonprofit organizations,” said Ryanne Jennings, president and CEO of the Wayne County Community Foundation and a Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program graduate.
“The coursework in not hypothetical. Participants can apply concepts learned in class immediately. That is very powerful and inspiring. The experience in this program was well worth the investment.”
“The courses were very thorough in educating participants in all the aspects involved in managing a nonprofit, from financial best-practices to board cultivation and grant writing and everything in between. The program provided a depth of knowledge that was extremely beneficial to me and the other students,” said Ron Prislupski, president of NativityMiguel School of Scranton and graduate of the Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program.
Prislupski and Jennings valued greatly the colleagues and mentors they met through the program.
“I moved here from Philadelphia,” said Jennings. “The program allowed me learn about the landscape of fundraising in NEPA and to develop a cohort of peers locally who have been a great source for discussing challenges and successes. They have served as sounding boards for ideas and as professional references.”
“The instructors are absolutely wonderful and, three years later, I still keep in touch with them on a regular basis,” said Prislupski. “Also, the 15 members of my cohort share the same career paths. Through this program, you connect with individuals who have their hearts in the nonprofit sector.”
The certificate program combines a rigorous academic component taught by Kania School of Management faculty with expertise in nonprofit organizations, a mentorship and experiential learning. The program includes capstone project that requires participants to form a comprehensive plan to solve a current issue faced by the nonprofit organization they represent.
“My project was to create an annual fundraising plan, which, subsequently, I also developed and implemented at NativityMiguel,” said Prislupski. “What I learned in the program, specifically through the capstone project, has helped a local nonprofit organization develop a stabilized financial plan.”
The University of Scranton is accepting applications for the Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program for the 2022-2023 academic year. The deadline to apply is Nov. 11 for classes that begin in January 2023.
For additional information, visit the Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program webpage or call 570-941-4047.
NEPA Nonprofits Benefiting from Leadership Program
The Jesuit Center invites you to enjoy daily inspiration and reflection this holiday season by registering for its Advent Daily Devotional emails.
Each day of the season of Advent, enjoy a few moments of reflection, learning, prayer and inspiration by registering to receive this collection of daily essays written by our Jesuits, alumni, students, faculty and staff.
The holidays can often be a busy, stressful time, and the Advent Daily Devotional emails offer a great opportunity to intentionally take a few moments each day for spiritual renewal. To register, visit this link.
Register Today for The Jesuit Center's Advent Daily Devotional Emails
The “Planning to Attend” list for Reunion Weekend 2023 has officially opened. Visit this link to add your name to the Planning to Attend list, and visit the Planning to Attend page to see which of your classmates is planning to attend the festivities.
The University will celebrate Reunion Weekend 2023 from June 9-11. Registration for the event will open in March. For more information, visit scranton.edu/reunion or email alumni@scranton.edu.
University Opens Reunion '23 'Planning To Attend' List
The Council of Alumni Lawyers (CAL) is looking to create an Alumni Lawyers Directory so that alumni attorneys can more easily connect, network and support one another.
To register for the directory, visit this link.
CAL Seeking Attorneys for Alumni Lawyers Directory
The University's Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service is seeking feedback from current and former alumni public servants interested in sharing their experiences with current students.
The University of Scranton's Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service provides resources for students, governing officials and community members seeking education, training or opportunities related to ethics and excellence in public service.
To complete the brief questionnaire, visit this link. For more information, email alumni@scranton.edu.
Reminder: CEEPs Seeking Feedback From Public Servants
In collaboration with the President and the Office of the Provost, the Jesuit Center will host Dr. Natalia Imperatori-Lee, Professor and Chair of Religious Studies at Manhattan College. Dr. Imperatori-Lee will present Latinx Catholicism and the Future of the Church in the United States.
The lecture will take place on Thursday, November 10, at 5:00 p.m. in Loyola Science Center 133.
Dr. Imperatori-Lee's research focuses on Catholic ecclesiology, in particular the intersection of ecclesial identity with feminist and Latinx Catholic thought. Her book, "Cuéntame", explores how narratives shape ecclesiology, which is the study of the church.
Her interests include the relationship between Catholic theology, sexuality, and education, the intersection of Mariology and ecclesiology, intercultural theology, gender studies, and the relationship of women, the poor and other marginalized groups to church structure and governance.
Dr. Imperatori-Lee has served on the governing boards of the Catholic Theological Society of America, and the of the Academy of Catholic Hispanic Theologians of the U.S. She is a member of these organizations as well as the American Academy of Religion. She has also served on the board of FutureChurch.
All are welcome to attend.
For more information, contact the Jesuit Center at ryan.sheehan@scranton.edu.
In addition, Dr. Michael E. Lee, professor and director, Francis & Ann Curran Center for American Catholic Studies Affiliate, and Latin American and Latino Studies Institute at Fordham University, and husband of Dr. Imperatori-Lee, will speak at an Ellacuria group luncheon.
Latinx Catholicism and the Future of the Church in the United States
Homeboy Industries “live and breathe their mission” according to Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program student Emma Boyle.
Jesuit values seamlessly permeate every aspect of the largest gang rehabilitation and re-entry program in the world. Only the Latin phrases like “cura personalis” or “magis,” so familiar with Scranton students, do not appear anywhere at their facilities or in their marketing materials.
Members of the University’s McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program may help to change that.
The group of elite business students at Scranton have adopted a comprehensive set of projects involving branding, new revenue opportunities, and program replication for Homeboy as part of their Business Leadership Consulting Theory and Practice course taught by Douglas Boyle, D.B.A., professor and chair of the Accounting Department.
Two students along with Dr. Boyle and Ashley Stampone, D.B.A., assistant professor of accounting, visited Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles in September to begin the project. The students and faculty members met with Homeboy’s founder Rev. Gregory Boyle, S.J., CEO Tom Vozzo and other key leaders at the nonprofit organization.
Initially looking at the website for Homeboy, the in-person visit and review and additional meetings with Homeboy leaders has broadened the scope of the project. Robert McKeage, Ph.D., associate professor of management, marketing and entrepreneurship and long-time director of the Business Leadership Honors Program that bears his name, expects the project will take about two years to complete and envisions will involve of members of the Business Leadership Honors Program for the classes of 2023 and 2024.
According to Drs. Stampone and McKeage, the students will now consult with Homeboy on a range of potential opportunities, including community and youth program outreach, grant and donor relation development and possible marketing and expansion of educational programming, as well as identifying growth possibilities for nearly dozen individual enterprises run by Homeboys, such as the tattoo removal service.
The students who visited Homeboy have already been impacted by the organization and the project.
Emma Boyle called the Homeboy Art Academy a “sanctuary for the children.” The students and faculty members were also impressed by the breath of educational programs offered through homeboys, ranging from parenting classes to workforce development courses that incorporated teaching “soft skills,” as well as job training.
“I am really grateful for this opportunity. It will provide real experience consulting with a major company, said Matthew Earley, Perkasie, a senior finance major, member of the McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program and Presidential Scholarship recipient. “I’ve gotten a hands-on look at the process of consulting and a look at the skills that are needed in that field. It was also an eye-opening experience to hear so many tremendous stories of how people turned their lives around that I now have a new perspective in that regard.”
“The visit to Homeboy has given me a new perspective on my career and the career path I want to take to utilize my skills to help others in any way I can,” said Emma Boyle, an accounting major from Peckville.
Other students participating with this project through the McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program Consulting Theory and Practice course are:
Owen P. Ascher, Garden City, New York, an accounting and finance major;
Thomas J. Csehovics, Fair Lawn, New Jersey, a finance major;
Joshua T. DeMarco, Hillsdale, New Jersey, a business analytics major;
Jillian D. Heier, Mickleton, New Jersey, an accounting major;
Jessica M. Hook, Barto, a marketing major;
Jordyn S. Lieber, Edison, New Jersey, a business administration major;
Francis J. Lynch, Richboro, an electrical engineering major;
Aiden P. Messett, Throop, a finance major;
Kayleigh S. Olszewski, Conshohocken, an accounting and finance double major;
Claudia Pitts ’22, Scranton, who is pursuing a master of accountancy;
Jennifer R. Rossiter, Jenkintown, a finance major;
Thomas A. Yager, Randolph, New Jersey, an accounting major.
The University of Scranton’s McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program, which is one of Scranton’s programs of excellence. Students in this highly-selective program explore the basic theories and concepts of leadership through special seminars and courses in management, ethics, strategy and analysis, in addition to field trips to learn from top executives and projects in leadership, service and mentoring.
$content.getChild('content').textValueStudents Take on Project with Homeboy Industries
AllOne Charities has awarded a $25,000 grant to The University of Scranton to support free physical therapy services offered by Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students to vulnerable populations in the region.
The University’s Physical Therapy Community-Based Outreach Program seeks to improve women’s health access in the refugee community. This is done through evidence-based preventive health education, risk assessment for disease, and health promotion wellness services, particularly for those who are unlikely to access the University’s free, campus-based Physical Therapy Clinic.
The grant will support the equipment and supplies, translation services and transportation needed for DPT students to conduct faculty-supervised physical therapy and health education clinics for uninsured and underinsured members of our community, particularly refugee or resettled women and families, in their own neighborhoods or community spaces.
The Physical Therapy Community-Based Outreach Program will focus on: reducing maternal mortality and morbidity; improving cognitive, mental and physical health outcomes; and preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among our region’s vulnerable populations.
AllOne Charities supports local and regional non-profit organizations, whose initiatives help to address some of Northeastern and North Central Pennsylvania’s most pressing health challenges.
Scranton’s graduate-level, three-year, 111-credit Doctor of Physical Therapy Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
All-One Grant Supports Physical Therapy for Vulnerable Populations
University of Scranton Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students participated with the city of Scranton’s “Wellness at Your Doorstep” program, which provides health screening and community resource information at Scranton residencies and community organizations. At a recent “Wellness” event at Adams High-Rise Apartments, DPT students conducted the fall risk assessments and took health screenings of participants.
$content.getChild('content').textValueDPT Students Put Theory into Practice
The Church has a long tradition of remembering those who have died. The Catholic tradition does this in a special way throughout the month of November by joining in prayer and worship, and calling to mind those who have gone before us.
On Sunday, Nov. 13 at 4:30 p.m. the annual Mass of Remembrance will be celebrated in Madonna della Strada Chapel. All are welcome to join as we remember in prayer the deceased family members, friends and loved ones of the students, faculty and staff of the University of Scranton and the alumni of the University of Scranton who have died in the past year.
As part of the Mass on Nov.13, there will be a ritual reading of the names of those who have died since this time last year (since November 2021). If you have lost a friend or loved one during the past year and would like their name included in the ritual during mass, please click here to complete the form.
Please contact amy.hoegen@scranton.edu or The Office of Campus Ministries at 570-941-7419 with any questions.
Annual Mass of Remembrance
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague’s accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!
THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for NOVEMBER 2022 is: KARL JOHNS, Technology Support Services
How long have you worked for the University?
"Forty years."
What do you like best about your job?
"Speaking and working with the students, faculty and staff."
What do you like to do for fun?
"Being outdoors fishing and hunting. I seem to have more interests than time."We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Karl does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Karl and all our nominees.
Karl will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University food service outlets, as well as a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for the month of November. Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition event in May to receive a certificate of appreciation.
We congratulate our winner and all nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!
NOVEMBER 2022 Nominees:
Anthony Amato, Facilities
Shawn Beistline, Infrastructure & Security Service
Janet Bernick, Nursing
Erin Boughton, Facilities
Julie Brackeva-Phillips, Technology Support Center - IT
Tom Cody, Infrastructure & Security Services
Phil Erb, Infrastructure and Security Services
Christine Falbo, CAS Advising
Lori Flynn, Registrar
Terri Golosky, Admissions
Kim Hurst, Payroll
Karl Johns, Technology Support Services
Jane Johnson, Recreational Sports
Thomas Kern, Client Services
Barbara King, Student Life (Dean of Students area)
Kristi Klien, PCPS Dean's office
Andrea Malia, Campus Ministries (Formerly: Comm.)
Margaret Mazzino, Facilities
Chad McCall, IT
Alex Mulhern, Facilities
Denise Mullen, Facilities
Jason Oakey, IT
Jerry Peck, Facilities
Patricia Savitts, Weinberg Memorial Library Circulation
Cathy Seymour, Campus Ministries
Eileen Siock, Admissions
Justin Tambeau, Facilities
Kyle Thomas, Maintenance, MGH Nursing
Jason Wimmer, IT
Joe Wright, Physical Plant
Karl Johns is Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award Winner
John Colonna ’67, G’73, G’76, Binghamton, New York, was recently inducted into the Binghamton University Athletics Hall of Fame (coach) and was also inducted with his team into the Catholic Central/Seton Catholic Central High School Hall of Fame.
Amanda (Mandy) Bair '07 G'09, Williamsport, was hired as School Counselor at Curtin Intermediate School in the Williamsport Area School District in Williamsport.
MARRIAGES
Marco Carnovale ’18 to Katie Moloney ‘19
Christopher Mingone ’20 to Emmaline Freeman ’21
BIRTHS
A daughter, Emma Anne, to Kevin P. '13 and Jacquelyn A. Tofani Dermody '13, Conshohocken
DEATHS
Victor F. Greco, M.D. ’47, Drums
Joseph J. Rescigno ’67, G’73, Scranton
Peter J. Igoe ’72, G’75, G’85, Dunmore
Philip W. Gumble ’73, Bethlehem
Michael P. O’Malley ’76, Scranton
Sharon A. Troynacki G’80, Pittston
Malcolm A. Kline ’81, Triangle, Virginia
Rita Koshinski-Uchida, D.O. ’82, Monterey, California
Michael J. Carroll ’83, Monroe, New York
Richard Kazmerick ’86, Exeter
Mary S. Sylvester ’03, Scranton
FRIENDS' DEATHS
Pamela Carlson, wife of Kevin Carlson '78
Alumni Class Notes, November 2022
By: Kelly Nee '23, student correspondent
As assistant professor in The University of Scranton biology department since 2018, Cara A. Krieg, Ph.D., uses a local population of wild songbirds to understand social behavior and communication.
Dr. Krieg is originally from Woodstock, Illinois. She received her B.A. from Grinnell College, and Ph.D. from Michigan State University, with a dual degree in Zoology and Ecology, and Evolutionary Biology and Behavior.
""I am one of a handful of field biologists in the department. This means that I do most of my research work outside rather than in a laboratory. Students in my lab get hands-on experience with wild animals living in their natural environment," said Dr. Krieg.
She discusses what she brings to the biology department, the University's Jesuit mission, and her current research in the field of bird behavior.
"I am a behavioral ecologist who uses many techniques from population ecology. This means I spend a lot time watching the behavior of wild birds, and I know a lot about each individual bird in my population. From a teaching perspective, I bring an expertise in animal behavior, animal communication, and evolutionary theory."
What are your current research interests?
"I am broadly interested in how ecological and evolutionary forces shape social behavior in wild animals. My lab works with a wild population of house wrens (a native songbird) nesting at Lackawanna State Park. My work is currently focused on two behaviors that have historically been understudied in female animals: female-female aggression and female bird song.
Some work of the past couple summers has focused on (1) whether more aggressive females face longer term costs to survival or health, (2) whether males adjust their reproductive effort when they are mated to a more competitive, aggressive female, (3) how females use their song during naturally occurring territorial conflicts, and (4) how female physiology influences female song production and how this differs from what happens in males."
How do you think the university's Jesuit mission has impacted your time as a professor?
"The culture of ‘cura personalis’ has definitely impacted my lived experience in this job. I care about my students’ success, both in the classroom and then as humans. It’s refreshing to be at an institution where this type of work is valued and encouraged versus being in a competitive environment where people are focused on tearing each other down.
I also think the University’s Jesuit focus probably impacts the type of student I have in my classroom. I’ve found that students here tend to be more motivated by social justice issues than they have at other institutions where I’ve taught. It’s much easier to teach about aspects of environmental science that impact human society when I know I’m not speaking to deaf ears."
What location on campus brings you inspiration?
"I’m a big fan of Loyola Science Center. I love how the windows are such a big part of the design. I enjoy being able to look out my office window and see the plants and birds, even if I am still working inside."
How would you describe the culture of your department?
"Collaborative. My colleagues are always willing to lend lab equipment, teaching materials, or expertise when someone asks. Although we might disagree on the exact solutions, I think we all agree on what is most important. I think this makes for a healthy department."
What IS your strength as an instructor?
"I'm a big proponent of active learning. Students in my lecture courses can often be found having discussions or working on activities in addition to listening to lectures. My hope is that this makes the science easier to learn and more accessible to those who might find a science course intimidating. At my heart, I’m a big science nerd. I think that enthusiasm is infectious. I try to project that enthusiasm when I’m teaching my courses. My hope is that students leave a little more excited about the biology than when they arrived."
What is your favorite comment from a student that you’ve ever received on a course evaluation?
"Dr. Krieg was an awesome professor from start to finish and made me feel excited about and engaged in science material for the first time in my academic career at any level. She was passionate about her subject matter and did an excellent job of communicating content and expectations with students. I would recommend her and any of her classes to any student at the U.”
Get to Know Dr. Cara A. Krieg
"The Office is my go-to show when I’ve had a stressful day. (This was true even before I took a job in Scranton, PA!)"
"I grew up in a very musical family, so my music tastes are quite eclectic. Here’s a random smattering of things I enjoy: Cake, Iron and Wine, Jain, Sarah Jarosz. I’ve also sung with choirs for most of my life, so I enjoy a good choral arrangement. Eric Whitacre is one of my favorite composers. It’s probably not a coincidence that I now research bird songs!"
FACULTY PROFILE: A Conversation with Dr. Cara Krieg
October
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Pulitzer Prize-winning and New York Times best-selling author, Annette Gordon-Reed, J.D., discussed her book “On Juneteenth” at The University of Scranton’s Values In Action Lecture on Wednesday, Oct. 12. The lecture was part of the University’s annual Royal Reads program, which introduces incoming students to Ignatian values through a shared reading experience of a selected book in addition to courses and extra-curricular activities. From left: Anthony Betancourt, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology; Teresa Grettano, Ph.D., associate professor of English and theatre; David Marx, Ph.D., associate provost of academic affairs; guest speaker Gordon-Reed; David Dzurec, Ph.D, interim dean of college of arts and sciences; Michelle Maldonado, interim provost and senior president for academic affairs.
$content.getChild('content').textValueAuthor Annette Gordon-Reed Discussed Book Oct 12
Members of the Wienberg Memorial Library’s 2022 Distinguished Author Committee are planning a Nov. 18 dinner to honor Pulitzer Prize-winning and Tony Award-nominated playwright, novelist and screenwriter Ayad Akhta. At the event, which will be held in McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center at The University of Scranton, Akhta will receive the 2022 Royden B. Davis, S.J., Distinguished Author Award from the Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library. Proceeds from the event benefit the Friends of the Library Endowment Fund, which supports special gifts for the Weinberg Library collections and services.
Gretchen Welby, Pharm.D., is chair of the 2022 Distinguished Author Committee, whose members include George J. Aulisio, dean of the Weinberg Memorial Library and Marian Farrell, Ph.D., president of Friends of the Weinberg Library and professor of nursing at the University.
Current and retired University employees, as well as members of the greater Scranton area community make up the rest of the committee. Other committee members are: Geri Botyrius, Diana Collins, Deputy Title IX and Equal Employment Opportunity coordinator/investigator, Office of Equity and Diversity; Roy Domenico, Ph.D., professor and chair of the History Department; Donald Drasba, manager of the University bookstore; Kym Fetsko, administrative assistant for the library; Erika Funke, WVIA; Annettte Kalwaytis; John McInerney, Ph.D., professor emeritus, Department of English and theatre; Lisa Mekilo, course materials manager for Follett; Sondra Myers, director of the Schemel Forum; Jennifer Pennington, administrative assistant for the Office of Equity and Diversity and enrollment management; Adam Pratt, Ph.D., associate professor of history; Sheli Pratt-McHugh, associate professor and chair of Weinberg Memorial Library; Phyllis Reinhardt; Rosemary Shaver, Ed.D.; Kara Stone, Ph.D.; Bonnie Strohl; and Narda Tafuri, professor emeritus, library.
Akhtar was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2013 for his play “Disgraced,” which also received a Tony Award nomination. The play examines the role of religion, politics and identity in post-9/11 America. His play “Junk,” about junk bonds and Wall Street culture of the 1980s, won the 2018 Edward M. Kennedy Prize for Drama Inspired by American History. His work has been published and performed in over two dozen languages.
Named in honor of the late Rev. Royden B. Davis, S.J., who served in many roles at the University and as rector of the Jesuit Community, the Distinguished Author Award was established in 1997. The Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library envisioned the series as a way to honor notable fiction and non-fiction authors, and to give them the opportunity to share their literary pursuits and impressions with Northeastern Pennsylvanians. Past recipients of the award have included best-selling authors Madeline Miller, Lorene Cary, Colum McCann, Susan Campbell Bartoletti, Jay Parini, Steve Berry, William Berhardt, Mary Gordon, Phillip Margolin, James Grippando, Linda Fairstein, Lisa Scottoline, Mary Higgins Clark, Carol Higgins Clark, Malachy McCourt, Jack Palance and Scranton native Stephen Karam.
Prior to the reception, a book signing with the author will take place from 5 to 6 p.m. on the 2nd floor of the DeNaples Center. The book signing is free of charge and open to the public. A selection of Akhtar’s books will be available for sale at the event.
For more information and to purchase tickets for the Distinguished Author Award reception and dinner, visit scranton.edu/authaward or contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816 or kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Distinguished Author Award Dinner Planned
As Faculty Specialist in the Operations & Analytics Department at The University of Scranton, David Mahalak, Ph.D., aims to provide immersive learning opportunities for students.
“My favorite aspect of teaching is the connection with students,” said Dr. Mahalak. “I do my best to create an environment of mentorship where people can share wisdom to help others see opportunities.”
At the Kania School of Management he focuses on connecting students with educational and professional opportunities throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. In addition, he has worked personally with students on supply chain management and process improvement internships.
Dr. Mahalak earned a Doctorate of Engineering in Engineering Management from The George Washington University, where his doctoral research focused on using decision support systems to conduct an analysis of alternatives for the Department of Defense acquisition programs.
Here Dr. Mahalak discusses an experience that helped define who he is today, a linear programming class that changed the course of his career and the best advice he ever received from a professor.
What has been the biggest accomplishment of your career?
"My greatest accomplishment as a professional was working as a government contractor on the Joint Light Tactical Vehicles and Automated Convoy Operations programs. It was a privilege to work alongside active and retired military personnel. The work that we did extended beyond concepts of revenue and return on investments, and into more meaningful metrics, such as saving lives. It was an extremely rewarding experience to be part of those programs and it helped shaped me into the person I am today."
What is your favorite comment from a student course evaluation?
"A student that said they were challenged in my course, but thankful because it enabled them to do more than they thought they were capable of. As an educator, this is one of my main objectives. I want to provide a challenging, but supportive environment so students can build their self confidence to accomplish their personal, professional and academic goals."
How would you describe the culture of your department?
"The Operations & Analytics Department is very welcoming and open-minded. We are continually discussing the latest industry trends and how we can integrate these concepts into our current and future curriculum. It is great to be part of a department that is adapting to the needs of our students and industry."
How do you think the university's Jesuit mission has impacted your time as a professor?
“There are many talented young people in challenging financial and social situations. I want to give them hope and direction for changing their lives, and show them they also have support within their communities to guide them.”
Best advice you’ve ever received?
"The best advice that I ever received was during my junior year of undergraduate studies. My professor recommended that I take a linear programming class, which ultimately changed the direction of my life. In this course, I found my passion for applied mathematics, specifically within the business domain. After this class, I decided to pursue my master’s degree in operations research, which lead to employment in the government, doctoral research and several professional opportunities.
Looking back, I am thankful that I broadened myself and took that class, because if I didn’t, it is possible that I could have been on a different path. I always encourage students to challenge themselves, explore new opportunities, and have faith that the decisions and work they put in now will lead to amazing experiences in the future!"
How are you an advocate for the use of technology in the teaching and learning process?
"Technology is a huge component of the statistics and data analytics classes that I teach. I also share my personal recommendations and encourage students to build skills in computer programming, especially in Python.This is a growing need in industry and will open up more employment opportunities for our students upon graduation."
Why should students consider a major in the Kania School of Management?
"KSOM is an excellent program that is nationally recognized and most importantly, invested in our student’s future. Our faculty includes highly-distinguished researchers, and many of us come from professional backgrounds that enable us to integrate real-world experiences into our courses."
MEET DR. David Mahalak
David Mahalak, Ph.D., is a Faculty Specialist in the Operations & Analytics Department. A native of Wilkes-Barre, who now resides in Dallas, Pennsylvania, he received his Doctorate of Engineering in Engineering Management from The George Washington University. Prior to that he earned a Master of Science in Operations Research from Northeastern University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics with a minor in Secondary Education from Wilkes University.
Dr. Mahalak has completed master certificate programs at Michigan State University and Villanova University.
Inspirational Thoughts?
"My favorite quote is by Aristotle, 'We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.' I try to model myself upon this principle. Regular actions completed to the best of your abilities will enable you to accomplish your personal, professional, and academic goals."
Is there an event or tradition on campus that you look forward to every year?
"Casino Night is our semester-end Operations and Analytics club event that enables students to relax and have fun before finals, but also raises nonperishable food donations for the CSSJ!"
favorite sports team?
"Philadelphia Eagles, Fly Eagles Fly!!!"
Side pursuits:
"I enjoy playing chess, weight lifting, and volunteer coaching for my children’s’ youth sports teams."
In the news:
* Learn more about Dr. Mahalak's recent participation in a community fundraiser here.
* Read an in-depth profile about his commitment to Northeastern Pennsylvania here.
Faculty Profile: A Conversation with David Mahalak, Ph.D.
The University of Scranton volleyball team (19-9, 5-0 Landmark) rallied to take the final two sets and took down the Susquehanna River Hawks (14-13, 3-2 Landmark) by a score of 3-2 in a five-set thriller on Tuesday night at the John Long Center in Scranton.
With the win, the Royals remain unbeaten in Landmark Conference play at 5-0 with two conference matches remaining.
Scranton took the first four points of the match and opened up an 11-5 lead in the first set following a Susquehanna attack error. The River Hawks sliced the lead in half and made it 12-9 before five straight Royals ace including two service aces by junior Stephanie Margolies (Westfield, N.J./Westfield) stretched the lead to 17-9. However, the visitors responded with seven consecutive points to cut the lead to 17-16, but Scranton took eight of the final 11 points and a River Hawks' attack error closed out the 25-19 win for head coach Jamie Spangler's team.
Susquehanna was able to rally to even the match in the second set as they recorded the first 10 points and 12 of the first 15 for a 12-3 lead. Despite a rally by the Royals that brought them within five on two occasions, the River Hawks picked up the 25-16 victory.
Through the first part of the third set, the two sides battled to a 13 all deadlock before Susquehanna took the next six points for a 19-13 advantage and took a one set lead with a 25-19 victory following a kill from Kody Dillon.
A kill by sophomore Sophia Hadjiyane (Huntington, N.Y./John Glenn) gave Scranton a 16-9 lead in the fourth set, but the River Hawks would not go quietly and fought back to cut the lead to two at 19-17. From there, senior Abby Rzucidlo (Garnet Valley, Pa./Ursuline Academy) delivered a pair of kills and classmate Carah Vitkus (Mahopac, N.Y./Mahopac) forced a decisive fifth set with a service ace in the 25-21 win.
After the two teams split the first four points of the afore-mentioned fifth set, a River Hawks' attack error marked the beginning of six straight points for Scranton and Hadjiyane made it 8-2 with a kill. Susquehanna managed to cut the lead to 14-11 in the late stages of the fifth and final set before Rzucidlo finished things off with a kill.
Margolies led a balanced attack with 16 kills and the Royals featured five players that had nine or more kills with a season-high 10 from Rzucidlo and nine apiece by the trio of Hadjiyane, Vitkus and sophomore Erin Keaveney (Collegeville, Pa./Villa Maria Academy). Senior Caileigh Cox (Randolph, N.J./Randolph) also played a key role offensively with 45 assists.
Freshman Maddie Forry (Reading, Pa./Exeter Township) paced the Royals defensively with 35 digs, her second highest total of the season, and Vitkus added 12.
Rosina Esposito had 20 kills to lead Susquehanna in the setback.
The University of Scranton volleyball team will host Stevens in the regular season home finale on Friday night, Oct. 28, at the John Long Center, with first serve set for 7 p.m.
Volleyball Rallies to Top Susquehanna in Five-Set Thriller
Forty-two elite members of The University of Scranton's incoming class of 2026 enrolled in two of the University’s five programs of excellence. Scranton offers a range of honors and special programs designed to enhance and complement the academic experience.
Twenty-seven members of The University of Scranton’s incoming class of 2026 enrolled in its Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program. Students in this program undergo four years of honors studies in the areas of economics, entrepreneurship, operations management, accounting, finance, international business, marketing and management, as well as a series of personal development extracurricular activities in the areas of service and career building.
Meet the 27 members of the class of 2026 taking part in the Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program here.
Fifteen members of The University of Scranton’s incoming class of 2026 entered its Magis Honors Program in STEM. The program combines the development of STEM knowledge and research techniques with programing to further the students’ understanding of the impact science has on society.
The Magis Honors Program offers talented students a more intense, interdisciplinary experience of research in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Courses taken over four years at Scranton include a special first-year seminar on writing science and a series of seminars on STEM and society. With guidance by faculty mentors, the students in the program develop, present and defend a thesis based on their individual research projects. In addition, the program requires participation in annual community service projects, as well as professional development programs.
Meet the 15 members of the class of 2026 enrolled in the Magis Honors Program in STEM: here.
Forty-two from Class of 2026 Enter Honors Programs
The month of November is the traditional time in the Church's calendar for remembering those who have died. During this time, the Scranton community will pray in a particular way for those we love and to whom we owe so much: the deceased members of our families, our benefactors, and our alumni.
We invite all members of the University family to remember your family members and friends with us, and to have their names included in our prayers. You may submit the names of those to be remembered at Masses throughout the month of November via this link: https://forms.office.com/r/C0MwWsCCiQ
We also invite the University community to join our annual Mass of Remembrance on Sunday, Nov. 13 at 4:30 p.m. in Madonna della Strada Chapel. Family members and friends of our University community who have died in the past year will be remembered in a special way at this Mass.
With any questions, please contact the Campus Ministries office at 570-941-7419 or campusministries@scranton.edu.
November: Month of Remembrance
By: Claire Sunday '23, student correspondent
As the Director of Clinical Education in the department of Physical Therapy at the Panuska College of Professional Studies, Janette Scardillo '05, G'06, DPT'09, reminds her students of a goal that should fuel their studies. The skills and knowledge they gain today will enable them to help others as they move forward in their careers.
“Cura Personalis,” she said, “is very important in our profession.”
The Latin phrase that translates as “care of the whole person,” aptly describes how physical therapists should view anyone in their care -- not just as a patient, but as a whole person, she said.
National Physical Therapy Month each October provides an opportunity for patients to better understand the care that is available to them, and for physical therapists to advocate for their profession, she added.
Dr. Scardillo, of Whiting, New Jersey, was named faculty specialist at The University of Scranton in 2017, returning to her alma mater as an educator with a breadth of experience.
After earning a doctorate in physical therapy in 2009, she worked as assistant professor and co-director of clinical education at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, and as a traumatic brain injury and patient therapist at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland.
Dr. Scardillo recalled many career-affirming moments from her time there, and said those experiences inspired a commitment to service.
$content.getChild('content').textValueSharing her passion for service
While at the University, Dr. Scardillo has participated in domestic and international service trips. She has traveled to aid the community in Guatemala twice with the department of physical therapy.
“Being able to serve the community as a faculty member with my students has been really rewarding,” Dr. Scardillo said.
Locally, she serves on the board of directors of Cinderella's Closet, and volunteers with the Junior League of Scranton and Friends of the Poor, among other organizations.
Opportunities for students have evolved post-pandemic, and Dr. Scardillo said the department of physical therapy has integrated skills into their program to prepare students for those changes.
Dr. Scardillo incorporates a high-fidelity mannequin into patient simulations for students in the department to learn skills appropriate for the inpatient physical therapy settings. Formal simulations have been added into the Advanced Patient Management and Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy courses within the DPT curriculum, she said.
"I'm not afraid to challenge them, which is one of the best ways for them to learn."
MEET DR. JANETTE SCARDILLO
Dr. Janette Scardillo, of Whiting, New Jersey, earned doctorate and master's degrees in physical therapy in 2009 and 2006, respectively, and a bachelor's degree in health science in 2005, all from The University of Scranton.
Before joining the faculty at the University, she worked as an assistant professor and co-director of clinical education at Thomas Jefferson University. Prior to her time as an educator, Dr. Scardillo worked as a physical therapist in New Jersey, Washington, D.C., and Maryland.
Which location at The University of Scranton brings you Inspiration?
"The University's Chapman Lake Retreat Center holds many fond memories."
Faculty Profile: A Conversation with Janette Scardillo '05, G'06, DPT'09
Department and organizations on campus are invited to submit their latest publication for the Royal News "Featured Publication" spotlight.
How to submit? Send an email to royalnews@scranton.edu with a PDF of your newsletter or publication.
Departments and Organizations: Share Your Publications
The Center for Service & Social Justice (CSSJ) has accepted the challenge of finding donors for 40 family members from six separate families who have registered for assistance through the annual Catherine McAuley Center’s Adopt a Family Program.
If you are interested in participating, please contact ellen.judge@scranton.edu. In your email response, please specify the number of people you wish to purchase gifts for this year. The families include adult parents, in addition to children of varying ages.
Want to participate in the Adopt a Family Christmas program?
• Purchase gifts for the family member(s). You may use their wish list or buy something of your choice. The agency has provided a wish list and clothing size for each person. We ask that you spend about $100 per person.
• Wrap your gifts, or send in a gift bags, and put a tag on each item with the person's name and assigned number that you received with the wish list and details.
• Drop your gifts off in the CSSJ office, DeNaples 205B no later than Friday, Dec. 9 at 12 p.m. CSSJ student workers will deliver the gifts the following Monday, Dec. 12.
Ready to Adopt a Family for Christmas?
In conjunction with the exhibition "Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Toliman. Photographs by Byron Maldonado," a Campus Coffeehouse will be held on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022, in Leahy Room 235 from 7 to 8:00 p.m.
Please join for conversation about Mayan culture and the San Lucas Mission, refreshments, and a friendship bracelet activity. Refreshments will include Guatemalan coffee and apple crisp.
Produced in conjunction with the Multicultural Center, this show is supported in part by a University of Scranton Diversity Initiatives Grant. Please contact Darlene Miller-Lanning at darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu or 570-941-4214 for further information.
Mayan Narratives Coffeehouse Rescheduled
The Office of Community and Government Relations, and Scranton’s Story: Our Nation’s Story, in collaboration with the Office of Equity and Diversity, are pleased to announce the return of Curtis Zunigha, enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians (Oklahoma) and co-founder/co-director of the Lenape Center in New York City.
Zunigha was featured last November via Zoom, in a "D+I=A Better U!" lunch and learn. His visit to campus this year will include public events, and University and community stakeholder meetings. Their aim: To foster deeper learning and engagement in ways that honor Indigenous peoples and cultures, and the history and ongoing legacy and impact of colonialism.
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On Thursday, Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. Zunigha will offer a public keynote lecture on "Forced Removal of the Lenape People: History and Homecoming" in the DeNaples Ballroom. Zunigha will share his experience and mission to heal the wounds of forced removal and colonization and his desire is to restore the circle of friendship, respect, and shared occupancy. This lecture is part of the Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story initiative funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and supported by a Diversity Initiatives Grant through the Office of Equity and Diversity.
Faculty are encouraged to send students to this important event. For more information, visit this page or contact community@scranton.edu or 570-941-4419.
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On Friday, Nov. 18 at 12 p.m., a Faculty/Staff Diversity and Inclusion Lunch & Learn, hosted by the Office of Equity and Diversity in the Kane Forum, will feature a special presentation and musical performance by Zunigha where he will share his traditions and the present-day culture of the Lenape people. Click here to register for the lunch and learn. Or, contact diversity@scranton.edu or 570-941-6645 with any questions and to register.
Zunigha is an enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians in Oklahoma. He possesses more than 35 years of experience in tribal government and administration, community development, telecommunications, and cultural preservation. He is an acknowledged expert on Delaware/Lenape culture, language, and traditional practices. Zunigha is the co-founder and co-director of The Lenape Center, based in New York City. The Lenape Center promotes the history and culture of people through the arts, environmental activism, social justice and agricultural practices. The Lenape Center’s work represents the return of the original Indigenous people to their original homeland of Lenapehoking (NY, NJ, PA). Zunigha is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
Lunch and Learn will Feature Curtis Zunigha
Fifteen elite members of The University of Scranton’s incoming class of 2026 entered its Magis Honors Program in STEM. The program combines the development of STEM knowledge and research techniques with programing to further the students’ understanding of the impact science has on society. The Magis Honors Program in STEM is one of the University’s five programs of excellence.
The Magis Honors Program offers talented students a more intense, interdisciplinary experience of research in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Courses taken over four years at Scranton include a special first-year seminar on writing science and a series of seminars on STEM and society. With guidance by faculty mentors, the students in the program develop, present and defend a thesis based on their individual research projects. In addition, the program requires participation in annual community service projects as well as professional development programs.
The following members of Scranton’s class of 2026 entered the Magis Honors Program in STEM.
Matthew J. Almonte, East Stroudsburg, is majoring in mathematics.
Jordan L. Badman, Sunbury, is majoring in biology.
Connor P. Brophy, Macungie, is majoring in biochemistry, cell, molecular biology.
Alyssa M. Cosklo, Fell Township, is majoring in biology.
Joseph T. Dolan, Conshohocken, is majoring in computer science.
Emily Alexa C. Gotiangco, Staten Island, New York, is majoring in computer science.
Grace L. Lloyd, Yardley, is majoring in neuroscience.
Allison M. Magee, Harleysville, is majoring in mathematical sciences.
Alexa R. Martinez, Walden, New York, is majoring in biology.
Sheldon S. Myers, Blue Bell, has not yet declared a major.
Brian M. Oconnor, Sussex, New Jersey, is majoring in mechanical engineering.
Hailey C. Patts, Harding, is majoring in biochemistry.
Michael L. Redmond, Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, is majoring in biophysics.
Daniella M. Scanlon, Goshen, New York, is majoring in neuroscience.
Matthew F. Schade, Haddon Heights, New Jersey, is majoring in mathematical sciences.
Janice Voltzow, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Biology Department, serves as the director of the Magis Honors Program in STEM.
Class of 2026 Students of Magis Honors Program
Twenty-seven elite members of The University of Scranton’s incoming class of 2026 enrolled in its Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program, which is one of Scranton’s programs of excellence. Students in this program undergo four years of honors studies in the areas of economics, entrepreneurship, operations management, accounting, finance, international business, marketing and management, as well as a series of personal development extracurricular activities in the areas of service and career building.
The following is a list of the class of 2026 Corcione Business Honors Program participants and their majors:
Luca J. Baratta, Richboro, is majoring in finance.
Logan H. Campbell, Chalfont, is majoring in business analytics.
Karleigh A. Capobianco, Long Beach, New York, is majoring in business analytics.
Zachary Cruz, Philadelphia, is majoring in business administration.
Sean H. Davis, Morristown, New Jersey, is majoring in business administration.
Alice M. Dierkes, West Chester, is majoring in accounting.
Dean J. Finan, Malvern, is majoring in finance.
Michael P. Finley, New Milford, New Jersey, is majoring in business analytics.
Molly F. Gaffney, South Abington Township, is majoring in accounting.
Cinthia K. Garcia, Clarks Summit, is majoring in business administration.
Aidan M. Garrison, Montgomery, New York, is majoring in finance.
Patrick A. George, Endicott, New York, is majoring in business administration.
Sinead A. Gilmartin, Pearl River, New York, is majoring in accounting.
Derek T. Halligan, Staten Island, New York, is majoring in accounting.
Javier Illescas-Peralta, Paterson, New Jersey, is majoring in business administration.
Jeremiah J. King, Lawrenceville, New Jersey, is majoring in accounting.
Jerry T. Klein, Blackwood, New Jersey, is majoring in business administration.
Joseph J. Mazich, Sparta, New Jersey, is majoring in business analytics.
Christian G. Messana, Staten Island, New York, is majoring in finance.
Olivia N. Miller, Phoenixville, is majoring in operations management.
Logan E. Muniz, Ringwood, New Jersey, is majoring in finance.
Michael R. Nicotera, Mountain Top, is majoring in economics.
Camille C. Schwabe, Harleysville, is majoring in business administration.
MacLean L. Thuermer, Manchester Center, Vermont, is majoring in business administration.
Nicholas S. Tollefsen, Rockville Centre, New York, has not yet declared a major.
Elizabeth G. Vander Neut, Exton, has not yet declared a major.
Angelina R. Veve, Bayville, New Jersey, is majoring in business administration.
Aram R. Balagyozyan, Ph.D., associate professor of economics, finance and international business, serves as director of the University’s Corcione Business Honors Program.
Incoming Students Join Business Honors Program
Majestic Mt. Everest and seven more of world’s tallest peaks stretch to the heavens within the narrow borders of the southern Asia country of Nepal. Global Insights is pleased to feature Ayushi Das ’26, accounting, and Aditya Agrawal ’24, graduate student in the Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program, who will present on Nepal, Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 11:30 a.m. in the Rose Room, Brennan Hall 509. Registration is required. Click here to register.
“Hindu is the national religion. Most people wake up and pray,” said Agrawal. “Many wake up, read the newspaper and have milk tea,” a favorite drink, added Das.
Hinduism is the centerpiece of Nepali culture. Families can be both dependent, including extended relatives living together, and independent, where the household contains only the nuclear family. Either way, it is customary for families to gather together for special Hindu holiday celebrations.
Das and Agrawal shared that their favorite holidays are the Dashain National Festival, which they said celebrates the triumph of the different manifestations of the Goddess Durga over evil, followed by Tihar, a five-day festival of lights worshipping Yama and Laxmi. People sing and dance, decorate with lights and set off fireworks. Elders bless younger family members with tika, red powder mixed with rice that is placed on the forehead, as a welcome and symbol of faith and devotion.
All students, faculty and staff are invited to learn about the Living Goddess, and share in the cultural cuisine of Nepal!
This program is being offered by the Office of Global Education, the Cross Cultural Centers, Residence Life and the Office of Equity and Diversity. For more information, please contact international@scranton.edu or 570-941-4841.
Global Insights Presents 'Nepal'
By: Gabriella Petti '24, student correspondent
This past weekend in Washington, D.C., University of Scranton students joined 2,000 attendees at the 25th annual Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice, "Rooted and Renewing". On their agenda: prayer and advocacy for a more just world, and inspiration from internationally-renowned speakers.
Fifteen from the University took part in the educational trip organized by Erin Grell ’22, graduate student in the Center for Service & Social Justice office, Avianna Carilli '22, coordinator of domestic and international service programs for the Center for Service and Social Justice, and Cathy Seymour, director of retreats and spiritual programs for Campus Ministries.
The Center calls the University community to commit to the challenge of solidarity and activism, and works to bring about a world more respectful of human life and dignity through advocacy and justice education. In addition to the Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice, the center's annual social justice programs and education include a poverty simulation and a refugee simulation. Learn about our social justice programs and education here.
Event host, the Ignatian Solidarity Network, presented keynote speakers Maka Akan Najin Black Elk, executive director for Truth and Healing Red Cloud Indian School, climate activist Bill McKibben and author Olga Segura. The organization describes its guiding force as the "mission to network, educate, and form advocates for social justice animated by the spirituality of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the witness of the Jesuit martyrs of El Salvador and their companions in 1989."
Students Visit Washington, D.C. for Ignatian Family Teach-In
Leigh Magnotta Fennie ’11 ’G19, business consultant for The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center (SBDC), was honored at America’s SBDC 2022 Conference in San Diego as one of the inaugural America’s SBDC 40 Under 40.
According to America’s SBDC, the network is filled with talented young professionals who make significant contributions to their SBDC mission and local communities. To celebrate these achievements, they launched Top 40 Under 40 Young Professionals Award, a recognition of SBDC staff from across the national network who demonstrate innovation, leadership and commitment to the SBDC mission.
Fennie joined the SBDC in June 2015. She provides business consulting to start-up and existing small businesses across the SBDC’s 8-county service area, with a focus on Monroe and Wayne Counties. She stepped up in 2020 to serve as a CARES Act Business Consultant, assisting existing small businesses impacted by the pandemic, including helping them obtain almost $5,000,000 in disaster financing and grants. She also developed and delivered a number of educational programs and worked with many entrepreneurs to rethink their business models.
She earned her MBA from The University of Scranton in 2019, and her bachelor’s degree in international business from the University in 2011.
Scranton’s SBDC, housed in the University’s Kania School of Management, serves eight counties in Northeastern and Northern Tier Pennsylvania.
SBDC’s Leigh Fennie Earns National Recognition
“Still Worth the Trip? Modern-Era Busing and other Lessons from Urban School Reform” will be discussed at The University of Scranton’s 36th Henry George Lecture on Tuesday, Nov. 8. The lecture, presented by Parag Pathak, Ph.D., the Class of 1922 Professor of Economics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center. The lecture is free of charge and open to the public.
“What I sometimes find frustrating in conversations about student achievement is they often get sidetracked from the issue of school quality,” said Dr. Pathak in a 2018 Wall Street Journal interview about his research. “At least for disadvantaged children, we see that what helps is what you might expect: smaller class sizes, longer school days, an environment that emphasizes mathematics and reading. They are schools that are attuned to data – they use assessments to see where they’re at.”
Dr. Pathak’s work on market design and education was recognized with several awards including a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers and the American Economic Association’s John Bates Clark Medal as the best American economist under age 40.
Dr. Pathak is the founder of MIT’s Blueprint Labs and the founding co-director of the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) Working Group on Market Design. Blueprint Labs is a research laboratory which uses tools from market design and research to produce evidence that helps decision-makers design and implement social policy. Dr. Pathak has contributed to the design of school choice systems in several cities including New York City, Chicago, and Washington D.C.
Dr. Pathak has authored leading studies on charter schools, high school reform, exam schools, vouchers, affirmative action and school choice.
Recently, together with Tayfun Sönmez, M. Utku Ünver, and M. Bumin Yenmez, Dr. Pathak has been working on a program that applies ideas from market design to the rationing of vital medical resources, such as ICU beds, ventilators, anti-viral drugs, convalescent plasma and vaccines. This has introduced the concept of a reserve priority system for the allocation of vital medical resources, a concept that is now part of several allocation frameworks in the field.
Dr. Pathak has served as an associate editor at the American Economic Review, Journal of Political Economy and Econometrica. He was on the Scientific Advisory Board of the Institute for Innovation in Public School Choice from 2007-2019. He is a co-founder of Avela Education.
Considered the preeminent public lecture series on economics in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Henry George Lecture Series is presented by the University’s Economics and Finance Department and the campus chapter of Omicron Delta Epsilon, an international honor society for economics. Among the distinguished list of speakers who have spoken at previous lectures are ten winners of the Nobel Prize in Economics: Paul Romer (2018), Robert Shiller (2013), Tom Sargent (2011), Peter Diamond (2010), Paul Krugman (2008), Joseph Stiglitz (2001), George Akerlof (2001), Amartya Sen (1998), Robert Lucas (1995) and Robert Solow (1987). The lecture series is named in honor of the 19th century American economist and social reformer and is supported financially by a grant from the Robert Schalkenbach Foundation.
For more information about the Henry George Lecture, call 570-941-4048 or email janice.mecadon@scranton.edu.
Economic Research Applied to School Reform Discussed
Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a concert featuring The University of Scranton Jazz Band and acclaimed drummer Carmen Intorre Jr. on Saturday, Oct. 29. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
Performance Music Conductor and Co-Director Philip J. Kuehn says, “Carmen is one of the first musicians I met when I moved to New York. He is a great human and musician, who has worked with a ‘who’s who’ of musicians. It is always a joy to work with him.”
According to Cheryl Y. Boga, Conductor and Director of Performance Music, “I first got to know Carmen in 2001 when he was 18 and a member of the very first class admitted into The Juilliard Jazz Studies program. He impressed me from our first meeting with not only his musicianship but also the way he exudes happiness when making music, cheerfully perseveres when undertaking hard work, and supports and champions his peers.”
A drummer since the age of 5, Intorre has performed and recorded with numerous musical luminaries such as George Benson, Larry Coryell, Wynton Marsalis, Monty Alexander, George Coleman, Eric Alexander, George Cables, Benny Golson, Richie Cole, Joe Locke, Lew Tabackin, Bobby Watson, Ira Sullivan and Bucky Pizzarelli. He currently serves as the drummer for legendary jazz guitarist Pat Martino, touring extensively throughout the world with the guitarist’s trio and quintet.
A 2011 Grammy nominee for co-producing the late Joey DeFrancesco’s critically acclaimed album, “Never Can Say Goodbye: The Music of Michael Jackson,” Intorre also performed alongside DeFrancesco and Dr. Lonnie Smith on the PBS show “Legends of Jazz,” hosted by Ramsey Lewis.
Receiving both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Juilliard School, Intorre has always been eager to uncover and share new approaches to drumming.
“This is my job. I have to give back what I was given a chance to do,” he says in a statement on his website. “Music is an opportunity for me to give up my soul, while in the process connecting with the audiences’ souls as well. I want the musicians on the bandstand and the members of the audience to feel uplifted after a performance, to feel great about themselves through the experience that they encountered.”
Intorre proudly endorses Craviotto, DW, Sabian, ProMark, Evans and LP products.
The University of Scranton Jazz Band is made up of 24 students and alumni from majors throughout the curriculum – none of them majoring in music - all brought together by their love of music making. The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles, there is no major in music at the University, and all enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible for membership in the University Bands, University Performance Choirs, University String Orchestra and Ensembles and Steel Drum Ensemble. A number of members of the faculty and staff, as well as alumni from the region, also perform with the groups. Each year, hundreds of students participate in the ensembles.
Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.
For additional information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more info on Intorre, visit carmenintorrejr.com.
Drummer Carmen Intorre Jr. Concert Set for Oct. 29
On Wednesday, Oct. 26, the University of Scranton community is invited to “Celebrate Argentina”. This Spanish cultural event is being led by Magali Ferrer, Fulbright scholar and graduate teaching assistant in the World Languages Department at the University for the 2022-2023 academic year.
The event will take place in Leahy Hall 235, the Kane Forum, from 4 to 5 p.m. Various cultural activities will take place, including preparing traditional Argentinian drinks, playing games, and participating in trivia. Everyone is encouraged to attend and experience a celebration of Argentina.
Ferrer, who is from San Rafael, Mendoza, a city located in the western central part of Argentina, said that Argentinian culture is very family focused.
Ferrer explained: “Family and friends get together to celebrate anything happening, even small things." She said that because of the family-centered culture “You will never, ever be alone.”
"I am really excited about being part of the Scranton community, and I hope to meet many of you while I am here!" said Ferrer.
Last month, Ferrer opened the University's Global Insights program for 2022-23 with a presentation on her home country.
Fulbright Scholar Will Lead 'Celebrate Argentina' Event Oct. 26
Junior Katie Redding (Havertown, Pa./Haverford) matched the single-game program record with four assists and The University of Scranton field hockey team (9-3, 4-1 Landmark) rolled to a 10-0 victory over the Goucher College Gophers (2-10, 0-5 Landmark) on Tuesday night at Beldon Field in Towson, Maryland.
The Royals' 10 goals are tied for the second most in program history and the most since an 11-0 victory over Misericordia on Sept. 12,1988.
Redding's four helpers tied the record that was set by Megan Gallagher in a 6-1 win over King's on Sept. 13, 2018. The Havertown, Pa., native also posted her third career hat trick and leads the Landmark Conference with 16 goals on the year.
Scranton had 10 penalty corners in the early stages of the first quarter and junior Elle Collins (Long Valley, N.J./West Morris Central) opened the scoring in the sixth minute as she tipped home a blast from Redding at the top of the circle. Sophomore Lauren Franco (West Chester, Pa./B. Reed Henderson) made it 2-0 in the ninth minute following the initial shot by junior Bridget Abraldes (Holbrook, N.Y./Sachem East) and the Royals added goals from fellow sophomore Reagan Dolan (Broomall, Pa./Bonner & Prendergast) in the 13th minute and Redding in the 14th minute to take a 4-0 lead after one quarter.
Goucher goalie Julia Foster tallied a pair of saves early in the second quarter, but the Royals struck again in the 26th minute when senior Maeve Kenny (Metuchen, N.J./Metuchen) found the back of the net for the first of her two goals on the night and Abraldes took a feed from Redding in the 28th minute to make it 6-0 at halftime.
Redding tallied her second goal of the night in the 40th minute and Scranton later added goals from Kenny, Redding and Dolan in the final two minutes of regulation to complete the 10-0 victory.
Joining Redding with multi-goal games were Dolan and Kenny with two apiece, while Abraldes added a goal and two assists. This marked Dolan's second straight multi-goal game after she also scored a pair in Saturday's overtime win versus Moravian.
Senior goalie Clare Maguire (Oreland, Pa./Mount Saint Joseph Academy) played all 60 minutes in the cage for the Royals and registered her seventh career shutout.
The Royals return home to host Susquehanna in a key Landmark Conference clash on Saturday afternoon at Weiss Field with start time slated for 1 p.m.
Redding Matches Single Game Assists Record as Field Hockey Rolls Past Goucher, 10-0
As Midterm Elections approach, an opportunity is available to join a panel of faculty and students who will consider how religious faith and commitment might or should affect how we vote and engage politically.
"God at the Polls" panel discussion will take place Thursday, Nov. 3 at 5:30 p.m. in the Theology Lounge, 4th floor of Loyola Science Center, opposite Room 409, between St. Thomas Hall and Loyola Science Center elevators.
Refreshments and event sponsored by the Department of Theology/Religious Studies.
Nov. 3 'God at the Polls?' discussion requests panelists
The University of Scranton provides an Employee Assistance Program, NexGen EAP, through Employee Network Inc. (ENI). This benefit is open to all employees, full-time and part-time.
This third-party confidential resource offers the services of Licensed Mental Health Professionals to provide short-term counseling focused on coping skills or, make appropriate referral to long-term counseling or specialized care.
NexGen EAP’s enhanced Mental Health Virtual Services feature a new, barrier-free, digital suite of therapeutic offerings aimed at addressing our employees' mental health needs by providing expanded benefit solutions including:
* Video, Live Chat, and text-based coaching and counseling
* Over 5,000 personal, self-guided mental health tools and resources
* Clinical and well being assessments and courses
* Expanded mindfulness resources and guided meditations
* Advanced Workforce Analytics
These new Virtual Service Enhancements will be live and updated in the NexGen EAP app in October of 2022.
To contact NexGen call 1-800-EAP-CALL (1-800-327-2255) or log on at www.nexgeneap.com and enter the Company ID, 1549, along with the employee's first and last name, email address, last four digits of the social security number, zip code and date of birth.
Employee Assistance Program Features Enhanced Mental Health Virtual Services
For Your Benefit, Session 2, discussing SwiftMD, will be hosted Oct. 20, from 2:30-4:00 p.m. in The DeNaples Center, Room 405.
Participants in the University's health plan have free and easy access to physicians 24 hours each day, seven days a week. SwiftMD is often the first call they make at the onset of an illness or injury to save themselves time and money.
If it can be treated by a routine office visit or a trip to an Urgent Care Center, SwiftMD offers a convenient, high-quality healthcare alternative. A representative from SWIFT MD, Ross McNeil, will present information about this valuable benefit and how to access care.
For more information about SwiftMD, visit: https://www.scranton.edu/hr/benefits/swiftmd.shtml
SwiftMD Representative On Campus October 20
The U.S. midterm elections are fast approaching; the General Election is on Tuesday, Nov. 8, with Pennsylvania polls open from 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. The last day to register to vote in Pennsylvania is Monday, Oct. 24. The University of Scranton recognizes the importance and duty that we each have to ourselves and our nation to participate in the civic process of voting for our elected officials. The campus-wide non-partisan Royals Vote initiative is here to help ensure that everyone on campus is registered and ready to vote.
Royals Vote Dedicated Voter Information Resource Website
The key to being election ready is to ensure an understanding of the democratic process of voting, including registering to vote or updating voter registration, knowing what to expect and what’s on the ballot, and being informed about the candidates and issues, along with voting rights. To offer education and resources, the Office of Community and Government Relations, in partnership with Student Government, created the Royals Vote dedicated voter information resource website at www.scanton.edu/royalsvote.
This website provides a step-by-step guide to ensure that everyone on The University of Scranton campus is ready and registered to vote. University of Scranton students may vote in Pennsylvania using their campus address. This page will offer the guidance and resources to help voters walk through the process of registering (check status and register today at www.vote.gov), researching the candidates and what’s on the ballot, reflecting on personal values and how they impact a vote, and providing information on voting rights. This site will continue to be updated with additional information and upcoming events leading up to Election Day.
Presidential Commitment to Full Student Voter Participation
This July, University of Scranton president Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J. signed the ALL IN Democracy Challenge’s Higher Education Presidents’ Commitment to Full Student Voter Participation. The University is committed to:
- striving toward full student participation,
- acknowledging the importance of student voice in all elections,
- preparing students to be informed active citizen,
- creating experiences to help students become lifelong voters, and
- empowering campus stakeholders to come together and determine solutions to the problems communities face.
PA House and Senate Debates Hosted on Campus
The University of Scranton’s Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service (CEEPS), in collaboration with the League of Women Voters of Lackawanna County, will host debates for PA House and Pennsylvania Senate candidates in October. All debates are presented free of charge and will take place in the PNC Auditorium of the Loyola Science Center on the University’s campus.
The remaining dates and times of the debates and the candidates (listed alphabetically) are listed below.
The 114th Pennsylvania House seat: Wednesday, Oct. 19, at 6:30 p.m.; David Burgerhoff (R) and Bridget Kosierowski (D).
The 118th state House seat: Wednesday, Oct. 19, at 8 p.m.; James Haddock (D) and James May (R).
The 22nd state Senate seat: Thursday, Oct. 27, at 6:30 p.m.; Thomas Bassett (R) and Martin Flynn (D).
For more information, email ceeps@scranton.edu.
Drop-in Virtual Voting Information Sessions
Students with questions about registering to vote, voting using their campus address, or any other election-related questions can join a virtual drop-in session with Carolyn M. Bonacci, Community and Civic Engagement Coordinator on Friday, Oct. 21 from 3:30 – 4 p.m. Registration via Zoom required at: https://scranton.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYldOusqjgtHdBXjvGhSRZpgf2OuUJWIoBa
After registering, students will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting directly from Zoom.
There will be an additional drop-in session hosted on last-minute voting questions with Dr. JoyAnna Hopper, Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science and CEEPS co-director on Friday, Nov. 4 from 1 – 1:30 p.m. Registration required via Zoom at: https://scranton.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAuc-uhqDkjEtQlLwLM1KeB8Q4tidcPuRC1
After registering, students will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting directly from Zoom.
Pre-election Examen
Students are encouraged to reflect on their values, the issues that matter most to them, and to consider which candidates can best represent them. On Monday, Nov. 7, the evening before the midterm elections, Daniel Cosacchi, Ph.D., Vice President for Mission and Ministry will lead an “Examen for Civic Life” in DeNaples 405 at 7 p.m. for University of Scranton students. This open session will offer an opportunity to pause and reflect before election day and light refreshments will be provided.
Additional Ignatian on civic and democratic engagement, including resources from our national partner The Ignatian Solidarity Network, can be found in the tab at the bottom of the Royals Vote dedicated resource page at www.scanton.edu/royalsvote.
Campus Celebration of Voting
This year on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 8, the Office of Community and Government Relations in partnership with Student Government will host a “Celebration of Voting” from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on The DeNaples Center Patio (inclement weather location, the Fireplace Lounge, 2nd floor, The DeNaples Center). University of Scranton students are encouraged to stop by to celebrate Election Day and make their voices heard. Whether students plan to vote by mail or in person, it’s important to honor participation in the democratic process of voting. Students are invited to stop by to enjoy refreshments, take a photo, and get an “I Voted” sticker.
More information will be posted in the coming weeks on the Royals Vote website and on the Office of Community Relations (@uofscommunity) and Student Government (@uofssg) Instagram accounts.
Motivation to Vote
The University of Scranton recognizes the importance and duty that we each have to ourselves and our nation to participate in the civic process of voting for our elected officials. Remeber that your voice matters and it's important that you make it heard by voting!
"I'm voting this year because of the importance of doing so in a swing state. For this midterm, all eyes are on Pennsylvania. I know that as young people, it feels like we've heard this again and again... but this one really feels like the election of our lifetime," said Karla Schaffer '24, intern in the Office of Community Relations and Civic Engagement and work study for the Office of Sustainability.
University of Scranton Prepares for Midterm Elections
In a occasional series, Royal News spotlights clubs from the university’s 80+ student organizations on campus, speaks to members, and offers information on how to connect with the clubs.
To suggest suggest a club for a future Royal News article, share ideas, or to inform us of any upcoming club events, please email RoyalNews@scranton.edu or Gabriella.petti@scranton.edu
GET INVOLVED
Club: Operations and Analytics Club
Meet: Luke Glidewell '24, operations management major from Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, and Operations & Analytics Club president.
Connect: @uofs_operations
Club: Colleges Against Cancer Club
Meet: Elizabeth Nemitz '25, biology major from Moscow, Pennsylvania, and president of Scranton’s Colleges Against Cancer club.
Connect: @uofs_cac
By: Gabriella Petti ’24, student correspondent
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, members of the Operations and Analytics Club and Colleges Against Cancer Club discuss their organizations' ongoing efforts to raise awareness and support.
Luke Glidewell ‘24, is an operations management major from Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, who serves as Operations & Analytics Club president. He's shown, at left, with club moderator Dr. David Mahalak, center, and Ally Fontana, following a fundraising event hosted recently in Pittston, Pennsylvania to benefit Paint Pittston Pink™, a 501c3 organization .
Here, he discusses the club, its efforts to support those facing breast cancer, and its future initiatives to give back.
Q: What is the mission of the Operations and Analytics Club?
"Our club is dedicated to helping students prepare themselves for the rapidly growing world of operations and analytics in a supportive environment that fosters strong connections. We host a multitude of meetings and events that feature guest speakers, in addition to fun activities, such as our Casino Night. We also focus heavily on community outreach."
Q: Where do you meet and when?
"We meet on Wednesday nights at 7 p.m., typically in the Pearn Auditorium in Brennan Hall."
Q: Why did you join the Operations and Analytics Club?
"I joined the club about the same time I picked up a business analytics minor. I had spoken to an alumnus who stressed the importance and growth of analytics in every field. This made me want to learn more and get more involved in the field."
Q: How did the club BECOME involved With service to raise awareness of cancer?
"Our club moderator, Dr. [David] Mahalak, is good friends with a woman who runs a local foundation called Paint Pittston Pink™. Along with the club, we brainstormed ideas and found ways we could help."
Q: Which of the club's service projects and events WERE DESIGNED to raise awareness?
"We recently printed T-shirts with our slogan 'Beating the Statistics'. We are selling these shirts with all proceeds going to the charity Paint Pittston Pink™. Dr. Mahalak, Ally Fontana, and I also ran in the 5K organized by the foundation."
Glidewell references the club's fundraiser designed to support breast cancer research. Proceeds from sales of T-shirts created by club members will benefit Paint Pittston Pink™, a 501c3 organization established in 2014 with a mission to “bring the community together to support a cure for all cancers through research and clinical trials.” One hundred percent of proceeds generated by Paint Pittston Pink™ are donated directly for research, using the Paint Pittston Pink™ Fund at The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA.
T-shirts are available for $15 each. To support the club's efforts, contact Operations and Analytics Club President Luke Glidewell, luke.glidewell@scranton.edu or Club Co-Moderator Dr. David Mahalak, david.mahalak@scranton.edu
Q: Do you ENVISION similar events in the club's future?
"We will continue selling our T-shirts and finding other ways to support our community...To further our commitment, we will be getting involved with Scranton Friends of the Poor, who focus on improving the standard of living for those facing poverty."
Q: Why do you make it a point to do this kind of service?
"We find it an important Jesuit idea and human practice to do what we can for those less fortunate than us."
Elizabeth Nemitz ‘25, shown, is a biology major from Moscow, Pennsylvania, and president of Scranton’s Colleges Against Cancer Club.
Q: What is the mission of the Colleges Against Cancer Club?
"We raise awareness and donations for the American Cancer Society."
Q: Where do you meet and when?
"Once a month, we meet in the Moskovitz Theater on the fourth floor of the DeNaples Center."
Q: WhAT INSPIRED YOU TO PARTICIPATE?
"Cancer has affected my family in many ways, and I joined to show support."
Q: What types of events doES THE CLUB ORGANIZE?
"We host many events throughout the year, all focused around the same goals of increasing cancer awareness, and raising money in support of those efforts. Events include The Great American SmokeOut, #UofSPinkWeek [a week of events dedicated to raising money and awareness for breast cancer charities] and the Ovarian Cancer Egg Hunt [fundraiser].
The largest and most well-attended event that we host is Relay for Life, and my favorite is Pink Week. We organize many events in the course of one week to promote awareness and collect donations. Fundraising efforts include [sale of items we create] tie-dying shirts, painting pumpkins, and making bracelets in collaboration with another club, Beading for Hope.
This year, we hope to improve our club attendance and get even more people involved with our events.
Club Spotlight: Organizations Support Breast Cancer Awareness Efforts
Audience members at upcoming shows of the romantic comedy “Almost, Maine” should pay careful attention to the backstory of each character. Keenan M. Beveridge ’24, who performs in the roles of Lendall and Phil, explained why. The junior theater major described what most surprised him about The University of Scranton Players’ production.
“This play is comprised of vignettes, meaning the scenes are short and seemingly unrelated to one another. I was surprised how much freedom I had as an actor to decide characters’ backstory and personality traits because they don’t have any scripted backstory before the scene starts,” said the junior theater major from Warminster, Pennsylvania.
The romantic comedy by John Cariani and directed by Michael O’Steen, will run October 21-23 and October 28-30 in the Royal Theatre in the McDade Center for the Literary and Performing Arts on the University of Scranton campus. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 8 p.m.; Sunday shows begin at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for general admission and $7 for senior citizens, students and University of Scranton faculty and staff. Reservations can be made HERE.
Here, Beveridge offers insight into his characters, his background in theatre and what he loves about The University of Scranton:
Q. Please describe what you love and hate about the characters you portray in “Almost, Maine”.
“My roles include Lendall (Getting It Back) and Phil (Where It Went). I love that Lendall is there to help his significant other even when she is upset with him, but I hate how clueless he is. I love that Phil stands up for himself in a struggling relationship, but I hate how he holds his real feelings in..."
Q. which celebrity would you like to see tackle these characters?
“I would like to see Jim Carrey’s representation of these characters because I believe he would bring another layer of emotion to them while still allowing the comedy of the show to be seen and enjoyed by the audience.”
Q. How do you spend time during a five-minute break during rehearsal?
“Depending on the day, I’ll either use my five-minute breaks to read over my lines or just to sit, close my eyes, and be in one place.”
Q. When did your involvement with the arts begin? Please explain what inspired your interest in the theatre.
“In fifth grade, my elementary school music teacher told me I had a nice voice. Shortly after we were taken to see a preview of the middle school’s production of “Annie”. Seeing people who I had grown up with breathing life into characters and having that much fun on stage made me fall in love with theater. I was in the school musical the following year and that love only grew.”
Q. What do you enjoy most about performing with The University of Scranton Players?
“I am treated as a professional while still being taught how to improve my performances and my theater etiquette. Overall, I enjoy the balance we have found between professionalism, education, and fun.”
Q. Have you been involved in other theatre productions?
“I have been in at least one show every year since sixth grade. I’ve participated in theater camps as both an actor and a counselor, with technical theater and crew responsibilities. In my time at The University of Scranton I have been in seven productions, including Almost, Maine. The previous productions include “Carrie the Musical,” “LOVE/SICK,” “313 Monroe Variety Hour,” “3 for 1 Acts,” “A Good Farmer,” and “Snapshots: A Musical Scrapbook.”
Q. Aside from theatre, what is your favorite aspect of The University of Scranton?
“Simply, the beauty of the campus and the incredible views of Scranton from particular spots on campus.”
'ALMOST, MAINE' OFFERS TALES OF LOVE AND "THE MYSTICAL ENERGY OF AURORA BOREALIS"
The University Players’ statement offers this summary of their upcoming performance:
“Propelled by the mystical energy of the aurora borealis and populated with characters who are humorous, plain-spoken, thoughtful, and sincere, ‘Almost, Maine’ is a series of loosely connected tales about love, each with a compelling couple at its center, each with its own touch of sorcery.”
In addition to Beveridge, the company of "Almost, Maine" features: Gabriella Palmer of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, Kit Karpiak of Scranton, Pennsylvania, Bryanna Grossman of North Brunswick, New Jersey, Thomas Kennedy of Scranton, Pennsylvania, Seth Strouse of Hanover Township, Pennsylvania, Faith Montagino of Morganville, New Jersey, Alek Panchik of Hershey, Pennsylvania, Andrew Vizzard of Havertown, Pennsylvania, Molly McGuinness of Stewart Manor, New York and Nicole Tonny of Scranton, Pennsylvania.
This academic theatre program brings performances to Northeastern Pennsylvania every season. The Players’ productions feature University of Scranton students in a mix of classical and contemporary works under the direction and mentorship of award-winning faculty and guest artists.
Interested in attending a performance of ‘Almost, Maine’? Find details below.
The University of Scranton Players will present "Almost, Maine," a romantic comedy by John Cariani and directed by Michael O’Steen, on Oct. 21-23 and Oct. 28-30. Friday and Saturday shows are at 8 p.m., Sunday’s shows are at 2 p.m. All performances are in the Royal Theatre in the McDade Center for the Literary and Performing Arts on the University of Scranton campus.
Tickets are $10 for general admission and $7 for senior citizens, students and University of Scranton faculty and staff.
Reservations can be made here. Tickets can also be reserved by visiting thescrantonplayers.com or, by calling the University Players box office at 570-941-4318.
Get to know…
Name: Keenan M. Beveridge ’24
Areas of study: theater major with a minor in education
Hometown: Warminster, PA
Interests outside of theatre: Basketball fan, captain of an intramural volleyball team. “I have experience as a bartender and find mixology very interesting, and I enjoy golfing even though I am not good at it.”
Favorite theatre productions, besides "Almost, Maine": “Once,” “Kinky Boots,” “Hamilton,” “In the Heights,” “Waiting for Godot,” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
Why You Should Attend 'Almost, Maine'
On Sunday, Oct. 23, Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a recital by critically and popularly acclaimed award-winning pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
Conductor and Director of Performance Music Cheryl Y. Boga says, “I first became of aware of Llewellyn and his incredible talent when my son (Joseph) would text me from his classes at Juilliard to tell me about this amazing 13-year-old who was already enrolled in pursuit of his undergraduate degree and – according to Joseph – ‘played piano like craaaazy!’ Now, at age 25, he is already one of the most virtuosic, vibrant and socially committed musicians of his generation.”
Described as “a gifted virtuoso” by the San Francisco Chronicle, Sanchez-Werner has been performing with orchestras since the age of 6. The California native has played internationally with the Royal Concertgebouw in the Netherlands, CultureSummit Abu Dhabi, the Louvre and Grenoble Museums in France, Smetana Hall in the Czech Republic, State Philharmonic Hall in Slovakia, Verbier Festival in Switzerland, Ashford Castle in Ireland and the Gijon International Piano Festival in Spain. In the United States, he has performed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Lincoln Center and National Sawdust in New York City, Mary B. Galvin Hall in Chicago, Richardson Auditorium at Princeton University, Paramount Theater in Oakland, and the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian Art Museum and Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C.
In addition, Sanchez-Werner has performed at the Kennedy Center and the White House for former President Barack Obama and current President Joe Biden, for President Peña Nieto of Mexico, Prime Minister Peres of Israel and President Kagame of Rwanda. Committed to public service, he received the Atlantic Council Young Global Citizen Award recognizing his dedication to social action through music in such countries as Iraq, Rwanda, France, Canada and the U.S.
An active chamber musician, Sanchez-Werner has collaborated with Renée Fleming, Eric Owens, Marina Poplavskaya, Richard O’Neill and Cynthia Phelps. He partnered with the Gershwin family on a concert and biographical tribute to the Gershwin brothers, and performed “Hallelujah Junction” for John Adams at his 70th birthday celebration in New York.
Sanchez-Werner earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Juilliard School, where he was awarded the Kovner Fellowship, won the concerto competition and was the youngest admittee to each program at ages 14 and 18, respectively. Juilliard was Sanchez-Werner’s second college experience - he became a full-time student at Ventura College at age five, where he completed 170 college credits toward degrees in music and international relations. Sanchez-Werner also earned an Artist Diploma from the Yale School of Music, where he was awarded the Charles S. Miller Prize.
Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.
For further information on the recital, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more info on Sanchez-Werner, visit llewellynsanchezwerner.com.
Oct. 23 Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner Piano Recital
Author and historian Elizabeth Hinton, Ph.D., will discuss “Riot or Rebellion?: The Meaning of Violent Protest from the 1960s to George Floyd” at this year’s Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities presentation of the Myers Distinguished Visiting Fellow Lecture on Thursday, Oct. 20. The lecture, presented free of charge and open to the public, will begin at 5 p.m. in the PNC Auditorium of the Loyola Science Center.
Dr. Hinton is an associate professor in the Department of History and the Department of African American Studies at Yale University, with a secondary appointment as professor of law at Yale Law School. Her research focuses on the persistence of poverty, racial inequality and urban violence in the 20th century United States. She is considered one of the nation’s leading experts on criminalization and policing. Her books include “From the War on Poverty to the War on Crime: The Making of Mass Incarceration in America” and “America on Fire: The Untold History of Police Violence and Black Rebellion Since the 1960s.”
At the Myers Distinguished Visiting Fellow Lecture, Dr. Hinton will discuss “a troubling journey from Detroit in 1967 and Miami in 1980 to Los Angeles in 1992 and beyond to chart the persistence of structural racism and one of its primary consequences, the so-called urban riot.” Her discussion “will present a new framework for understanding our nation’s enduring racial strife.”
Dr. Hinton’s articles and op-eds can be found in the pages of the Journal of American History, the Journal of Urban History, The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Boston Review, The Nation and Time. She also coedited “The New Black History: Revisiting the Second Reconstruction” with the late historian Manning Marable.
Dr. Hinton earned her bachelor’s degree from New York University and her master’s degree and doctorate from Columbia University. Her many academic awards include being named a Ford Foundation and Carnegie Corporation Fellow.
The Myers Distinguished Visiting Fellowship Lecture, presented by The Gail and Francis Slattery Center for Humanities, is named in honor of esteemed community leaders Sondra and Morey Myers, J.D. Sondra Myers serves as director of the Schemel Forum at The University of Scranton.
Immediately following the lecture, a cocktail reception will be held for faculty and staff.
Author Elizabeth Hinton, Ph.D., to Speak Oct. 20
Through Nov. 18 Art Exhibit: “Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala” photographs by Byron Maldonado. Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Nov. 6 9 a.m. Open House for prospective students and their families. Various locations on campus. Registration required. Free. Call 888-SCRANTON or email admissions@scranton.edu.
Nov. 8 7:30 p.m. The 36th annual Henry George Lecture: “Still Worth the Trip? Modern-Era Busing and other Lessons from Urban School Reform” presented by Parag Pathak, Ph.D., professor of economics, MIT. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-4048 or email janice.mecadon@scranton.edu.
Nov. 10 Noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “On Democracy, Inequality and Jazz Improvisation” presented by Wayne Winborne, Ph.D., executive director, Institute of Jazz Studies, assistant professor arts culture and media, Rutgers University-Newark. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Nov. 12 7:30 a.m. Schemel Forum bus trip to New York, New York, to August Wilson’s “The Piano Lesson” $150. Registration required before Sept. 30. Spaces are limited. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Nov. 12 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring The University of Scranton Symphonic Band. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Nov. 17 7 p.m. Lecture: “Forced Removal of the Lenape People: History and Homecoming” presented by Curtis Zunigha, enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians and co-founder/co-director of the Lenape Center. The event is part of “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story,” a project supported by a NEH grant led by The University of Scranton and community partners. McIlhenny Ballroom, The DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Nov. 17-19 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday. “Rent” presented by Liva Arts Company. The Royal Theater, McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. $5. Call 570-941-7401 or email livaartscompany@gmail.com.
Nov. 18 6 p.m. Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library and Schemel Forum Collaborative Program: The Royden B. Davis, S.J. Distinguished Author Award Event honoring Ayad Akhtar, Pulitzer Prize-winning and Tony Award-nominated playwright, novelist and screenwriter. McIlhenny Ballroom, The DeNaples Center. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Nov. 18 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring The University of Scranton String Orchestra. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Dec. 2 Noon. Schemel Forum’s Munley World Affairs Luncheon Series: “How Putin’s Invasion of Ukraine Changed the World” presented by Trudy Rubin, Worldview columnist, The Philadelphia Inquirer. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Dec. 3 8 p.m. Performance Music: “54th Annual Noel Night” featuring The University of Scranton Singers and Chamber Ensembles. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Dec. 5 5 p.m. Community Relations Roundtable: “The Journey from ‘Immigrant’ to Citizen” featuring local resource speakers from a range of backgrounds, in collaboration with the Schemel Forum. The event is part of “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story,” a project supported by a NEH grant led by The University of Scranton and community partners. PNC Board Room, Brennan Hall. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Dec. 9 Noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “Process of Peace, Palermo: An Experience, a Model” presented by Leoluca Orlando, professor, former mayor of Palermo, honorary mayor of Palermo Huila Columbia and cofounder of Global Parliament of Mayors. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Dec. 11 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “Empty Stocking Fund Benefit Concert.” Performance Music student musicians perform solo, duet, trio and small group renditions of a variety of Christmas favorites. Houlihan-McLean Center. Admission: one new unwrapped toy, new toiletry items or a monetary donation. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
November and December Events Planned at University
Pulitzer Prize-winning and Tony Award-nominated playwright, novelist and screenwriter Ayad Akhtar will receive the 2022 Royden B. Davis, S.J., Distinguished Author Award from The University of Scranton’s Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library on Friday, Nov. 18. The award will be presented at a reception and dinner in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center. Reservations and tickets are required for the dinner and award presentation, which begins at 6 p.m. Proceeds from the event benefit the Friends of the Library Endowment Fund, which supports special gifts for the Weinberg Library collections and services.
Akhtar was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2013 for his play “Disgraced,” which also received a Tony Award nomination. The play examines the role of religion, politics and identity in post-9/11 America. His play “Junk,” about junk bonds and Wall Street culture of the 1980s, won the 2018 Edward M. Kennedy Prize for Drama Inspired by American History. His work has been published and performed in over two dozen languages.
Akhtar is the author of “Homeland Elegies,” which The Washington Post called “a tour de force” and The New York Times called “a beautiful novel…that had echoes of ‘The Great Gatsby’ and that circles, with pointed intellect, the possibilities and limitations of American life.” His first novel, “American Dervish,” was published in over 20 languages. In addition to “Junk” and “Disgraced,” his plays include “The Who & The What” and “The Invisible Hand,” which received the Obie Award, Outer Critics Circle John Gassner Award and Olivier, among other accolades.
Among other honors, Akhtar is the recipient of the Edith Wharton Citation of Merit for Fiction, an Award in Literature from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the Steinberg Playwrighting Award, the Nestroy Award and the Erwin Piscator Award, as well as fellowships from the American Academy in Rome, MacDowell, the Sundance Institute and Yaddo, where he serves as a board director. Additionally, Akhtar is a board trustee at New York Theatre Workshop and PEN America, where he serves as president. In 2021, he was named the New York State Author, succeeding Colson Whitehead, by the New York State Writers Institute.
Named in honor of the late Rev. Royden B. Davis, S.J., who served in many roles at the University and as rector of the Jesuit Community, the Distinguished Author Award was established in 1997. The Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library envisioned the series as a way to honor notable fiction and non-fiction authors, and to give them the opportunity to share their literary pursuits and impressions with Northeastern Pennsylvanians. Past recipients of the award have included best-selling authors Madeline Miller, Lorene Cary, Colum McCann, Susan Campbell Bartoletti, Jay Parini, Steve Berry, William Berhardt, Mary Gordon, Phillip Margolin, James Grippando, Linda Fairstein, Lisa Scottoline, Mary Higgins Clark, Carol Higgins Clark, Malachy McCourt, Jack Palance and Scranton native Stephen Karam.
Prior to the reception, a book signing with the author will take place from 5 to 6 p.m. on the 2nd floor of the DeNaples Center. The book signing is free of charge and open to the public. A selection of Akhtar’s books will be available for sale at the event.
For more information and to purchase tickets for the Distinguished Author Award reception and dinner, visit scranton.edu/authaward or contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816 or kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Distinguished Author Award to Honor Ayad Akhtar
The University of Scranton held a kick-off event to launch a year-round celebration of the its 50-year anniversary of becoming co-educational. Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of the University, and Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., interim provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, spoke at the event, which also included refreshments and a commemorative T-shirt giveaway to students.
Banners marking the celebration adorn the campus walkways.
In addition, to mark the beginning of the celebration, the University showed a tribute to the 50th anniversary celebration on its Class of 2020 Gateway sign.
Scranton Celebrates 50 Years of Co-Education
This article is part of an occasional series spotlighting staff throughout the University community. Suggestions for future articles should be directed to RoyalNews@scranton.edu.
Shannon Zottola, vice president for enrollment management at The University of Scranton, is excited to take part in her first Open House event at Scranton, coming up on October 23.
This summer, Zottola joined the University as a member of the President's Cabinet, bringing 17 years of leadership experience to the position of chief enrollment officer. A native of Scranton, Zottola had most recently served as vice president and dean for enrollment management and marketing at Ursinus College in Philadelphia.
How doEs your background strengthen the Undergraduate and Graduate Admissions teams here?
"I had been working in enrollment in various capacities at numerous institutions for nearly 20 years before coming to The University of Scranton. My experiences at these other institutions, both in the Scranton region and in the Philadelphia region -- one of the most competitive higher education landscapes in the nation -- give me an advantage when thinking about the short-term and long-term strategies that we need to execute to be successful in our enrollment efforts. This will be powerful when combined with the experiences and historical knowledge of my colleagues who have been at the University for a long time."
In your experience, what is the key to developing a good team?
"This is the part of my work that I love the most. It really comes down to finding what motivates each individual staff member and where their specific strengths lie and aligning the two.
I'm also a relational person, so my goal is to get to know the people who I work with every day. I want to show them that we all have big jobs to do, but we can have fun doing them and love coming to work every day. It's important to note that to build a great team, you can’t be afraid of conflict. The work that we do requires continual change and sometimes that’s really hard for people. We need to work through that and find a way to be our best selves together. This is where the magic happens!"
which aspects of the University impressed you during the college search process?
"I remember bringing my son to a Royal Day event in February. What struck me the most: The very beginning of the presentation, led by Father Keller, regarding the Jesuit tradition at The University of Scranton....I had visited other institutions that tended to shy away from leading with their religious affiliation. I was impressed that the University was deeply committed to our Jesuit tradition, and proud to lead with this.
That happened to be the day before my Zoom interview for this position and it reaffirmed how much I missed working at a Catholic institution. This is just one example of many, like the amazing tour at the onset of our college search process here, or the impressive academic programs and campus."
key piece of advice you recommend to prospective students:
"Having just been through it, the college search process is stressful for both students and parents. Given my work, I thought it would be so easy...it wasn't! It’s hard to separate out the feelings of stress and anxiety to get to a place where you can really understand finding the best fit.
My advice for everyone is to take a deep breath, understand that there’s an endpoint where a decision will be made, and know that nothing is forever. There’s a lot of pressure to get it right at the beginning, whether that’s about the college you pick or the major you select. We can always change our minds.
When it comes to financial aid in particular, if there is an institution that you are interested in, and you think that financially it is out of your reach, please don’t give up. There are a lot of resources out there that can help make the college of your dreams a viable option. On the flipside, I would caution students from taking out large amounts of debt to attend a certain institution. There are a lot of options out there and I would suggest that they consider them before going down that path."
What has kept you enchanted With Enrollment Management after 16 years?
"I am still here because we are doing important, life-changing work, and I love the newness of every day in enrollment.
A career-affirming moment?
"The number of colleagues who have worked for and with me who have asked me for references or professional advice. This always affirms that I must be doing something right if these relationships continue to remain strong after so many years."
Get to know... Shannon Zottola
Undergraduate Degree: University of Pittsburgh, B.S. in Psychology
Graduate Degree: University of Pittsburgh, M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration
High School: Bishop Hannan
Favorite Quote: “We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the game.” -Randy Pausch
Favorite TV shows: "Game of Thrones," "Mad Men," and "The Office," to name a few.
Favorite Pastimes: "Spending time with my husband John, son Aidan (class of 2026), and daughter Vivian, plus our large family on both sides, including 11 nieces and nephews! Traveling, walking, reading, watching the sunset, big family vacations to the beach."
Meet the Staff : Shannon Zottola, VP for Enrollment Management
Who doesn't love potato pancakes? Traditionally called placki ziemniaczane in Poland, they have become a coveted treat at fairs, festivals and local church bazaars in Scranton and Northeastern Pennsylvania.
All faculty, staff and students are invited to join the next Global Insights program featuring Staś Zygmunt, University director of news and media relations, on Thursday, Oct. 20, at 11:30 a.m. in the Rose Room, Brennan 509. Registration is required. Click here to register.
"The presentation will be about Polish culture and traditions. We will have a grand time learning about Polish dance, songs, language, food and some cherished traditions."
This program is being offered by the Office of Global Education, the Cultural Centers, Residence Life and the Office of Equity and Diversity. For more information, please contact international@scranton.edu or 570-941-4841.
Global Insights Presents: Poland
In a new series, Royal News will spotlight clubs from the University’s 80+ student organizations on campus, speak to members, and offer information on how to connect with the clubs.
To suggest suggest a club for a future Royal News article, share ideas, or to inform us of any upcoming club events, please email RoyalNews@scranton.edu or Gabriella.petti@scranton.edu
GET INVOLVED
Club: Knitting Club
Meet: Knitting Club President Cayman Webber ‘24, is a biology and philosophy major from Buckeye, Arizona.
Connect: Follow the club on Instagram @uofsknittingclub
By: Gabriella Petti ’24, student correspondent
Knitting Club President Cayman Webber ‘24, a biology and philosophy major from Buckeye, Arizona, discusses the community service efforts of the knitting club.
Q: What inspired you to join the University Knitting Club?
"As a freshman coming from Arizona, I wanted to find my niche and my community on campus. ...What better way to do that than [through] something that I already loved, which is crafting. I did not know how to knit at the time, but I made a lot of great friends."
Q: Tell us a bit about the club.
"Twice a month, the first and third Mondays, we meet at the Arrupe House to knit and crochet."
Q: What type of knitting projects do you create?
"We like to center a lot of our work around community service, along with other fun projects. We make winter clothing, hats and scarves, and donate them for the underserved in our community."
Q: What community service events do you plan on doing where you can donate those crafts?
"We are hosting a craft table at the Safe Trick or Treat event (hosted by the Center for Service and Social Justice) where we'll make little yarn ghosts and spiders as decor for kids. Also, we're knitting hats for Clothes Line for Men, which donates to people who are homeless or reentering the workforce, or people in need. We plan to knit oven mitts ... for We Care, a program that prepares 50 to100 meals each week for the community. We especially want to give back to We Care because we host our meetings at the Arrupe House, where the We Care program is based."
Webber references the Rev. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., House, on Clay Avenue, hosts some of the many student volunteer programs offered by the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice that allow students to put their faith into action each day.
Q: What is your favorite part about knitting club?
"The diversity of people I meet through it. We all love knitting. We are united under a common cause."
Q: Who can join the knitting club?
"Anyone is welcome to join the knitting club. You do not need to know how to knit. We welcome all skill levels.... Someone should join if they have an interest in knitting, or want to make friends, or be involved in a unique form of community service."
Club Spotlight: Knitting Club
The University of Scranton volleyball team extended its winning streak to seven games with three victories last week and the women's soccer team has now won three straight after wins over Farmingdale State and Elizabethtown.
For more on the current winning streaks and the rest of the week that was in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Volleyball, Women's Soccer Extend Winning Streaks
Veronica Romanek’s interests are as vast as the universe.
A member of The University of Scranton’s class of 2023, she is a double major in physics and Spanish and participates in Scranton’s undergraduate Honors Program. She has presented her physics research project at several conferences including those hosted by the American Geophysical Union, CEDAR, HamSCI, SARA, the National Science Foundation, and others. As part of another project, she built an atmospheric sensing device that was launched into space through NASA’s RockOn project. Aside from physics, she is a certified Physical Fitness Zumba instructor and offers weekly Zumba classes on campus. She is also a peer health educator for the University’s Center for Health Education and Wellness and an active amateur (ham) radio operator, the latter of which helped her earn a highly-competitive national Amateur Radio Digital Communications (ARDC) scholarship.
Romanek is among just 20 recipients of the $25,000 scholarship awarded for the 2022-2023 academic year by the ARRL National Association for Amateur Radio. Recipients must hold an amateur radio license and maintain an exceptional GPA in their coursework, in addition to demonstrating active ham radio participation and meet other requirements.
Romanek began at Scranton with an undeclared major. She had an interest in physics and foreign languages but wasn’t sure whether she wanted to pursue either as a major.
“I joined a lot of clubs and asked a lot of questions,” said Romanek, who recalled a meeting with Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics and electrical engineering at The University of Scranton, that led her to pursue physics as a major.
“I stopped by his office at the time he was beginning to install radio equipment in the Loyola Science Center. He invited me to help with some of the installation of the impressive equipment as he answered my questions and I was hooked,” said Romanek.
By supplementing her coursework and getting involved in the University’s ham radio club, Romanek was among a group of Scranton students who participated in NASA’s 2021 RockOn Workshop through which students were sent kits to build atmospheric sensing devices. The devices were built and tested on campus, then sent to the RockOn program headquartered in Colorado. Romanek’s device was among the 28 chosen to be launched into space on June 24, 2021, from the NASA Wallops Flight Facility on a two-stage Terrier-Orion rocket.
Romanek said her participation with the RockOn Workshop was one of her best experiences at Scranton and gave her a “taste of what working on a scientific team is like.” She worked with fellow physics majors, computer scientists, engineers as well as with students from other disciplines. She is also the current and founding president of the W3USR University Amateur Radio Club.
In the summer of 2022, Romanek presented “HF Doppler Observations of Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances in a WWV Signal Received with a Network of Low Cost HamSCI Personal Space Weather Stations” at the National Science Foundation CEDAR Workshop. She also presented “Traveling Ionospheric Disturbance Observations with the Grape Personal Space Weather Station” at the 2022 Dayton Hamvention. She also attended the Incoherent Scatter Radar (ISR) Summer Workshop where she got to run an experiment on the antennas located at the MIT Haystack Observatory. In addition, Romanek participated in the national Youth on the Air (YOTA) Camp, which is a week-long camp that took place at the Voice of America Museum near Cincinnati, Ohio, for young people from across the country to meet and learn more about amateur radio.
After graduation, Romanek plans to pursue a Ph.D. in either plasma physics or astrophysics. As she looks back at her time at Scranton, she treasures most the friendships made on campus. She also appreciated the breath of liberal arts classes she took that included courses from outside her majors including geography, philosophy, and history which allowed her to continue to explore her vast interests. Romanek was awarded membership to a number of honor societies at the University of Scranton, including: Physics Honor Society, Engineering Honor Society and World Language Honor Society.
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Pulitzer Prize-winning and New York Times best-selling author, Annette Gordon-Reed, J.D., will discuss her book “On Juneteenth” at The University of Scranton’s Values In Action Lecture on Wednesday, Oct. 12. The lecture will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Byron Recreation Complex. It is open to the general public, free of charge. The lecture is part of the University’s annual Royal Reads program, which introduces incoming students to Ignatian values through a shared reading experience of a selected book, in addition to programming in courses and extra-curricular activities throughout the semester that expands discussion on themes first encountered in the book.
The book selected for members of Scranton’s Class of 2026 is The New York Times best-seller “On Juneteenth,” a 144-page history and memoir by the Carl M. Loeb University Professor at Harvard University.
“Juneteenth refers to June 19, 1865 when U.S. Army Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that slavery was over in the state. It was originally celebrated as Emancipation Day by former enslaved people and their descendants,” said Prof. Gordon-Reed in an interview about the book published by The Harvard Gazzette. She said she wrote the book during the height of the pandemic, after she “had just written an essay on Juneteenth for The New Yorker, talking about the origins of the holiday and the way we celebrated it during my childhood. And in the previous year, I had done a big review — five books — for the New York Review of Books about Texas. The topic had been particularly on my mind.”
Prof. Gordon-Reed won the Pulitzer Prize in history in 2009 and the National Book Award in 2008, for “The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family.” In addition to articles and reviews, her other works include “Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings: An American Controversy,” and “Race on Trial: Law and Justice in American History Publishing,” among other books. Her numerous awards and honors includes a Guggenheim Fellowship in the humanities, a MacArthur Fellowship, the National Humanities Medal, the Frederick Douglass Book Prize, the George Washington Book Prize and the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award. She was elected a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2011 and was a member of the Academy’s Commission on the Humanities and Social Sciences. In 2019, she was elected as a member of the American Philosophical Society.
Prof. Gordon-Reed earned her bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College and her J.D. degree from Harvard. She was the first African American editor for the Harvard Law Review.
Best-Selling Author to Discuss Book Oct 12
The University of Scranton Players will present "Almost, Maine," a romantic comedy by John Cariani and directed by Michael O’Steen. The production will run Oct. 21-23 and Oct. 28-30. Friday and Saturday shows are at 8 p.m., Sunday’s shows are at 2 p.m. All performances are in the Royal Theatre in the McDade Center for the Literary and Performing Arts on the University of Scranton campus.
Reservations can be made at this URL: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdmUztNnoEaphJgfDHgCmsAWRGq3CtHndwlg7-1rbIyMTBPfQ/viewform
Or, by visiting us at thescrantonplayers.com
Or, by calling the University Players box office at 570-941-4318
'Almost, Maine' offers Tales of love and the mystical energy of Aurora Borealis
In a series of playful and surreal experiences, "Almost, Maine" dramatizes relationships that end, begin, or change beyond recognition, as strangers become friends, friends become lovers, and lovers turn into strangers. Propelled by the mystical energy of the aurora borealis and populated with characters who are humorous, plain-spoken, thoughtful, and sincere, "Almost, Maine" is a series of loosely connected tales about love, each with a compelling couple at its center, each with its own touch of sorcery.
The company of "Almost, Maine" features: Keenan Beveridge of Warminster, Pennsylvania, Gabriella Palmer of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, Kit Karpiak of Scranton, Pennsylvania, Bryanna Grossman of North Brunswick, New Jersey, Thomas Kennedy of Scranton, Pennsylvania, Seth Strouse of Hanover Township, Pennsylvania, Faith Montagino of Morganville, New Jersey, Alek Panchik of Hershey, Pennsylvania, Andrew Vizzard of Havertown, Pennsylvania, Molly McGuinness of Stewart Manor, New York and Nicole Tonny of Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Interested in attending? Find details BELOW.
Tickets are $10 for general admission and $7 for senior citizens, students and University of Scranton faculty and staff.
For more information, contact the University Players box office at 570-941-4318 or visit the Players website at www.thescrantonplayers.com or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The University of Scranton Players academic theatre program brings theatre to Northeastern Pennsylvania every season. The Players’ productions feature University of Scranton students in a mix of classical and contemporary works under the direction and mentorship of award-winning faculty and guest artists.
Questions? Email players@scranton.edu.
The University of Scranton Players Present 'Almost, Maine'
Dru Johnson, Ph.D., director of Center for Hebraic Thought and associate professor of biblical and theological studies at The King’s College in New York City, will present “Does the Hebrew Bible have a Unique Philosophy?” at The University of Scranton’s Judaic Studies Institute Lecture on Thursday, Oct. 27, at 7:30 p.m. in the Pearn Auditorium of Brennan Hall. The lecture is free of charge and open to the public.
Dr. Johnson teaches Biblical literature, theology and biblical interpretation at The King’s College. He is an editor for the Routledge Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Biblical Criticism series, an associate director for the Jewish Philosophical Theology Project at The Herzl Institute in Israel and a co-host for the OnScript Podcast.
Dr. Johnson has held research fellowships at the University of Saint Andrews, Scotland, the Shalem Institute for Advanced Studies, Jerusalem, and the Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. He currently serves on the steering committee of the Scripture and Church Seminar in the Institute for Biblical Research and was formerly the chair and co-founder of the Hebrew Bible and Philosophy Program in the Society for Biblical Literature. He has taught in Western Kenya, Brazil and the United Kingdom.
Dr. Johnson is ordained as a minister in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Missouri – St. Louis, a Master’s in Divinity degree from the Covenant Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in theology from the University of St. Andrews – Scotland.
The Weinberg Judaic Studies Institute was created in 1979 through an endowment funded by the local Jewish community. The Institute fosters a better understanding and appreciation of Judaism, Israel and their histories. It supports visits to the University by Jewish scholars and writers and supports library acquisitions, publications, faculty research, travel and other scholarly endeavors. The work of the Institute was further enhanced by a $1 million gift from Harry Weinberg in 1990.
For further information, contact Marc Shapiro, Ph.D., professor of theology/religious studies and the Weinberg Chair of Judaic Studies at The University of Scranton, at 570-941-7956 or marc.shapiro@scranton.edu.
Judaic Studies Fall Lecture Set for Oct. 27
Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a solo recital featuring acclaimed modern and historical performance viola and violincello da spalla player Andrew Gonzalez on Saturday, Oct. 15. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
According to Cheryl Y. Boga, conductor and director of Performance Music, “Andrew has performed at Scranton many times with our student string orchestra and his own quartets and trios. We are very excited to welcome him back to present a solo recital – our hall loves his sound.”
Passionate about historical performance, Gonzalez frequently performs on baroque viola and the violoncello da spalla. A student of Cynthia Roberts from the Juilliard 415 program, he has performed in festivals and series such as the Washington Bach Consort, Valley of the Moon Music Festival, American Bach Soloists, the Boston Early Music Festival, Helicon and many others. Gonzalez is one of the few people in the world who plays the violoncello da spalla, a five stringed mini cello that is played on the shoulder.
Hailed by the Strad Magazine for his ‘warm hearted playing and mellow tone’, Gonzalez enjoys a full career as both a soloist and chamber musician, performing in prestigious venues throughout the United States, as well as halls throughout Asia and Europe. As a sought-after chamber musician, his playing has allowed him to collaborate with respected ensembles such as the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and the Sejong Soloists, as well as members of the Guarneri, Juilliard, Tokyo, Orion, Borromeo and Vermeer quartets. In the fall of 2020, he became the new violist of the Jasper String Quartet.
Also an accomplished teacher, Gonzalez served as a fellow of Carnegie Hall’s ‘Ensemble Connect’ from 2016-2018 and teaches chamber music in the Heifetz Institute’s Program for the Exceptionally Gifted.
Originally from Chesapeake Virginia, Gonzalez attended the Governor’s School where he was introduced to chamber music and symphonic music. This led to his affiliation with the Hampton Roads Chamber Players, an ensemble that he has since performed with and offered masterclasses for, as well as a concerto appearance with the Virginia Symphony. An avid orchestral player, Gonzalez performs frequently with the New York Philharmonic, New York City Ballet, Orchestra of Saint Luke’s, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, Philadelphia Chamber Orchestra, New York Classical Players and Novus NY.
A graduate of The Juilliard School, Gonzalez holds both a master’s and bachelor’s degree under the direction of renown violists and pedagogues Michael Tree, Heidi Castleman, Steve Tenenbom and Hsin-Yun Huang. He performs on a 1930 Frederick Haenel viola modeled after a Gaspar da Salo.
Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.
For additional information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more info on Gonzalez, visit andrewgonzalezviolist.com.
Andrew Gonzalez to Perform Oct. 15
The University of Scranton’s Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service (CEEPS), in collaboration with the League of Women Voters of Lackawanna County, will host debates for PA House and Pennsylvania Senate candidates in October. All debates are presented free of charge and will take place in the PNC Auditorium of the Loyola Science Center on the University’s campus.
The dates and times of the debates and the candidates (listed alphabetically) are listed below.
The 112th Pennsylvania House seat: Tuesday, Oct. 18, at 6:30 p.m.; Kyle Mullins (D) and William Torbeck (R).
The 114th Pennsylvania House seat: Wednesday, Oct. 19, at 6:30 p.m.; David Burgerhoff (R) and Bridget Kosierowski (D).
The 118th state House seat: Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022, at 8 p.m.; James Haddock (D) and James May (R).
The 22nd state Senate seat: Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022, at 6:30 p.m.; Thomas Bassett (R) and Martin Flynn (D).
For more information, email ceeps@scranton.edu.
PA House and PA Senate Candidate Debates Set
The University of Scranton women's basketball team will battle Susquehanna on Sunday, Jan. 15 as part of a full day of Landmark Conference men's and women's hoops action at The Palestra in Philadelphia, Pa.
Key conference matchups will be showcased throughout the day with four total games taking place with two on the men's side and two on the women's side. Game times are tentatively scheduled for 12:00pm, 2:30pm, 5:00pm and 7:30pm.
Home of the University of Pennsylvania's men's and women's basketball programs and known as the "Cathedral of College Basketball," The Palestra opened its doors in 1927, making it the oldest major college arena still in use today. It has hosted more games, more visiting teams, and more NCAA tournaments than any other facility of its kind. Currently, it serves as the home to the Philadelphia Big 5, which consists of UPenn, Villanova University, Temple University, Saint Joseph's University, and LaSalle University.
"The Palestra is one of the most historic arenas in the country so for our players to have the opportunity to play there, is really special. It will be an experience that they will never forget," head coach Ben O'Brien said.
Tip time for the Lady Royals' contest is yet to be determined.
"I was so excited to learn that we will be playing Susquehanna at The Palestra this year. I am so grateful that we have the opportunity to play at one of the most historic arenas in the country," senior guard Bridget Monaghan (Florham Park, N.J./Morristown-Beard) added. "We will be competing on an amazing stage with such a special history and environment. This is definitely going to be a crazy experience that we will never forget, and I cannot wait!"
Additional information regarding game times and ticket sales will be made available in the coming weeks. Be sure to follow both the Landmark Conference and RoyalAthletics on social media as further details are released.
Women's Hoops to Clash With Susquehanna at The Palestra on Jan. 15
The University of Scranton volleyball team went 4-0 last week, while the men's and women's soccer team both posted Landmark Conference victories over Goucher.
For more on that and the rest of the week that was in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Volleyball Posts 4-0 Week
The University of Scranton Strategic Plan 2020 highlights diversity and inclusion as one of the five main goals: “Diversity & Inclusion - A Welcoming and Supportive Community: Reflect and understand the diversity of the world by demanding that diversity be a priority as we build an inclusive community and campus culture, develop and deliver our education and shape our student experience.”
The Diversity Initiatives Review Board is accepting applications for grants to support creative, educational programs that promote diversity, provide opportunity for inter-cultural engagement and expand opportunities for multicultural experiences for our community.
With the strategic plan goal in mind, we have committed to “expand both required and in-time orientation, training and leadership programming and resources for students, faculty, and staff that promote inclusion and cultural understanding, furthering our collective ability to be a more welcoming and respectful campus community.”
Some of the campus initiatives that have been made possible by this grant are:
- TA Talks featuring the teaching assistants in the World Languages and Cultures department;
- Safe Zone Training through the Cultural Centers;
- Festival of Nations hosted by the Multicultural Center;
- Holi Festival of Colors through the Asia Club and Asian Studies department;
- Justice on Tour through Office of Community Outreach;
- the Annual disAbilites Conference keynote speakers including RJ Mitte, through the Panuska College;
- Safe Zone training;
- the Weinberg Library International Film Festival;
- Hope Horn Gallery exhibitions and lectures;
- art exhibits, multicultural music events and many more.
The Diversity Initiatives Fund is available to students, faculty and staff, campus groups, departments or individuals seeking to promote a greater understanding of diversity through inclusive pedagogies, educational opportunities, multicultural activities and community outreach programs. The grant is intended to launch new, innovative, or educational opportunities for the University community. Recurring projects may apply for funding as well.
Please visit the Diversity Initiatives webpage for a full list of recent award winners, and to access the guidelines and application.
Applications will be accepted, reviewed and approved on a rolling basis. Semester deadlines for applications are November 30 and April 30. Questions on the application process may be sent to Jennifer.pennington@scranton.edu.
Diversity Initiatives Review Board Now Accepting Applications
The University of Scranton’s President’s Business Council (PBC) presented Patti Byrnes Clarke ’86, P’17,’19, global chief talent officer, Havas Group, and Tom O’Brien ’86, P’19, senior managing director, SumRidge Partners, a Raymond James company, with President’s Medals at its 21st Annual Award Dinner on Sept. 29 at Gotham Hall in New York City. Proceeds from the gala, which raised more than $1.1 million, support the University’s Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund.
“Our University has been blessed to be able to honor so many extraordinary individuals over the years and this year is no different. We are privileged to count among them our alumni Patricia Byrnes Clarke and Tom P. O’Brien, both of the class of 1986,” said Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton in his remarks.
The President’s Medal recognizes individuals who have achieved excellence in their fields and demonstrated extraordinary compassion for others, representing lifetime achievements that reflect the University’s mission of Catholic and Jesuit excellence and service.
“Patti and Tom are highly successful professionals who have had a tremendous impact on generations of alumni,” said Frank Pearn ’83, P’16, global chief compliance officer, JPMorgan Chase and Co., and chair of the President’s Business Council, in his remarks at the dinner. “They truly embody everything that the PBC aims to represent and, given the way that they share their talents, gifts and insights, they are wonderful examples of St. Ignatius’s quote that ‘Love is shown more in deeds than in words.’”
Through its celebrations, the PBC has generated more than $20 million for the University’s Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund. Presidential Scholarships are four-year, full-tuition scholarships awarded to incoming first-year students at Scranton with both outstanding records in high school and notable community involvement.
Presidential Scholar Dominic Finan ’23, Malvern, a neuroscience and philosophy double major in the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, spoke at the award dinner on behalf of the Presidential Scholars.
Dominic Finan '23 addresses the crowd at the PBC 21st Annual Award Dinner flanked by his fellow Presidential Scholars.
“Collectively, the 18 of us (from the class of 2023) have 28 majors, 18 minors, and 5 concentrations. … These academic pursuits, research opportunities and moments of profound growth would not be possible without the contributions of everyone in this room. So, for that I say thank you. Thank you for empowering our unique gifts, talents, and interests; and thank you, most importantly, for helping us call The University of Scranton our home. You have changed our lives, and our family’s lives, for the better,” said Finan. “The generosity of the President’s Business Council cleared a path for us to become future lawyers, doctors, actuaries, educators, researchers, and business executives alike. We promise to use the spark you ignited in us to ‘go forth and set the world on fire.’”
In accepting their awards, Byrnes Clarke and O’Brien talked about why they became involved with the PBC and in giving back to the University.
“I got involved with the PBC because I wanted to try to give back to students and help with mentoring and job placement,” said O’Brien. “Early in my career, a fellow Scranton alumnus, whom I did not know, helped me. … I need to do this because someone a long time ago helped me.” In recollecting his persistence in getting Scranton students considered for internships at Morgan Stanley and then at SumRidge Partners, O’Brien added, “If you haven’t tried it yet, I encourage you to do so. You are getting someone who is productive, hard-working, resilient and not entitled that will make a huge impact on your business.”
“The exposure to Scranton and its students and its alumni challenged me to take on my own journey to do more and to do better as a person, a family member, a leader and a friend,” said Byrnes Clarke. “It’s true that as Scranton students we are exposed to the Ignatian values, but aren’t always mature enough to overtly put them into practice in our lives. But, with a Scranton education, that Ignatian foundation is always there. And when you choose to be engaged, and get involved and give back to Scranton, you get this very special opportunity to explore those Ignatian roots.”
A recording of the 2022 PBC Dinner is available at https://youtu.be/efhjS3UcENQ, and photos from the event can be found on the Alumni Society's Shutterfly page. For more information on the PBC, contact Executive Director Tim Pryle ’89 at 570-941-5837 or pbc@scranton.edu, or visit scranton.edu/pbc.
About Patti Byrnes Clarke
Frank Pearn '83, P'16 and Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S. J., University President, present Patti Byrnes Clarke '86, P'17, '19 with the President's Medal.
During her time at the Havas Group, which is one of the world’s largest global communications groups and part of the Vivendi Group, Patti Byrnes Clarke has built a talent management approach that includes initiatives on network mobility, high-potential leadership development, women’s leadership advancement, global employee engagement, employer branding, global diversity, equity and inclusion and wellness. As the global chief talent officer, she is responsible for leading the talent and cultural strategy for the group’s 20,000 plus employees in more than 100 countries.
Byrnes Clarke earned her bachelor’s degree in management from the University in 1986. She is a former member of the University’s Board of Trustees and a former member of the Kania School of Management Advisory Board and the University’s Parents’ Executive Council (PEC). She is also a former chair of the PBC and created the PBC/Kania School of Management Career Coaches Program, in which she remains a mentor to current University students. She and her husband, David, reside in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, and have five children.
About Tom O’Brien
Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President, and Frank Pearn '83, P'16 present Tom O'Brien '86, P'19 with the President's Medal.
Prior to the acquisition of SumRidge Partners, LLC, by Raymond James in July 2022, Tom O’Brien was a co-founder, chief executive officer and president of SumRidge Partners, L.LC., which formed in 2010. SumRidge Partners is a top-ranked electronic fixed income market maker specializing in high-yield, investment-grade corporate bonds, municipal bonds, institutional preferred securities, and emerging market bonds. Prior to launching SumRidge Partners, O’Brien was co-head of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney’s Capital Markets division and was also a member of the firm’s management and risk committees.
O’Brien earned his bachelor’s degree of economics/finance from the University in 1986 and a master of business administration from Fordham University. He is a former member of the University’s Board of Trustees, where he served as vice chair, and was a former chair of the PBC. Today, he acts as a mentor to current University students and frequently teaches in the fixed income securities and markets course, which he co-developed with the late Frank Corcione, Ph.D., and Murli Rajan, Ph.D., G’84. He resides in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, with his wife, Denise, and their three sons.
Byrnes Clarke and O'Brien Receive President's Medals at PBC Dinner
Members of the Council of Alumni Lawyers (CAL) are invited to attend a lecture presented by Elizabeth Hinton, associate professor in the Department of History and the Department of African American Studies at Yale University with a secondary appointment as professor of Law at Yale Law School, through the Slattery Center's Myers Distinguished Fellowship Oct. 20.
Hinton is the author of "America on Fire: The Untold History of Police Violence and Black Rebellion Since the 1960s" and "From the War on Poverty to the War on Crime: The Making of Mass Incarceration in America." She will speak Oct. 20 at 5 p.m. in Room 133 of the Loyola Science Center, and the University will hold a cocktail reception immediately after the lecture. To register, visit this link.
CAL Members Invited To Elizabeth Hinton Lecture Presented By Slattery Center
The University of Scranton Book Club will begin discussing "The Whole Language: The Power of Extravagant Tenderness" by Gregory Boyle, S.J., at its next virtual meeting Nov. 1. To register for the discussion, visit this link.
"The Whole Language: The Power of Extravagant Tenderness" focuses on Boyle's experiences at Homeboy Industries, the largest gang intervention, rehabilitation and re-entry program in the world.
Ryan Sheehan, executive director of The Jesuit Center, and Daniel Cosacchi, vice president for Mission and Ministry, will lead the virtual discussions of the book. For more information on the club, visit scranton.edu/alumnibookclub.
University Book Club To Discuss 'The Whole Language' By Gregory Boyle, S.J.
The University will hold the following Presidential Christmas receptions:
Washington, D.C., Christmas Reception with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President December 1
The Mayflower Hotel
District Ballroom
1127 Connecticut Ave NW
Washington, D.C.
NYC Christmas Reception with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President December 2
The New York Athletic Club
Olympic Room
180 Central Park South
New York, New York
Philadelphia Christmas Reception with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President December 14
The Bellevue Hotel
Red and Clover Room
200 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA
New Jersey Christmas Reception with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President December 15
The Madison Hotel
Glenallyn Ballroom
1 Convent Road
Morristown, NJ
Registration will open in November. For more information, email alumni@scranton.edu.
University Announces 2022 Presidential Christmas Parties
The University will celebrate Reunion Weekend 2023 from June 9-11. Registration for the event will open in March. For more information, visit scranton.edu/reunion or email alumni@scranton.edu.
Save The Date For Reunion 2023 June 9-11
The University's Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service is seeking feedback from current and former alumni public servants interested in sharing their experiences with current students.
The University of Scranton's Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service provides resources for students, governing officials and community members seeking education, training or opportunities related to ethics and excellence in public service.
To complete the brief questionnaire, visit this link. For more information, email alumni@scranton.edu.
CEEPS Seeks Feedback from Public Servants
Friday, October 7, will be the last chance to register for the Alumni/Student Golf Outing Oct. 15 at Pine Hills Country Club, 140 S. Keyser Avenue, Taylor, PA.
The scramble golf tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Prizes will be awarded at a barbecue dinner at Pine Hills after the tournament concludes. To register, visit this link.
Register Today For The Alumni Student Golf Outing Oct. 15
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Marion Munley ’83, Moosic, recently spoke at the Melvin M. Belli Society 74th Annual Seminar in Seattle, Washington, on the topic, “Using Electronic Evidence on a Case.” The Melvin Belli Society was created in 1981 to promote courtroom excellence through the international exchange of ideas among the country’s top trial lawyers via meetings and education.
Timothy M. Powers '97, G'00, Pittston, was appointed to a one-year position as a lecturer in the Department of Counseling and Human Services at The University of Scranton. Powers will be teaching undergraduate courses on case management, multiculturalism, counseling theories, human adjustment and family systems.
Jed D. Gonzalo, M.D. ’02, Hummelstown, has joined the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine as senior associate dean for Medical Education and will lead its curricular and educational programs.
Melanie Natoli ’02, Front Royal, Virginia, a winemaker, received the Virginia Governor’s Cup on behalf of Cana Vineyards and Winery of Middleburg, marking the first time in the 40-year history of the event that a female winemaker won the cup.
John Swarts ’02, G’08, Dickson City, participated in the Ritz Theater’s 115th anniversary celebration by writing a modern-day adaptation of “Pinocchio.” The 15-minute play was performed each day of La Festa and starred some of the theater’s best actors.
Jonathan P. Forte ’07, G’09, Easton, Maryland, was appointed president/CEO of RiverStone Health and will lead the RiverStone Health Clinic, Home Health & Hospice, as well as the Yellowstone County Health Department, Montana Family Medicine Residency Program in Billings, Montana, effective January 2023.
Timothy Gallic ’09, Warren, New Jersey, a longtime Catholic school administrator across the country, became president of Powers Catholic High School on October 1, 2022.
MARRIAGES
Evan Canavan ’13 to Melissa Molinari
Meghan Tighe ’16 to Phillip Dunbar ’16
Larissa Hoffmann '16 to Timothy Harding '15
BIRTHS
A son, Cameron Vincent, to Brendan ’11 and Jill Lowry Reilly ’11, East Norriton
DEATHS
John A. Richards ’56, Pittston
A. Jerome McCormick ’57, Clifton Park, New York
Thomas V. Tinsley ’63, Glen Summit
Charles F. McElwee ’76, Hershey
David W. Fritz ’92, Old Forge
FRIENDS' DEATHS
Barbara Valtos, sister of Dennis Darlak, Ph.D. ’65
Ellie Grech, mother of Thomas J. Grech '84 and Robert Grech '87
Alumni Class Notes, October 2022
What is a concentration? This interdisciplinary program, similar to a minor, can complement any major.
At the fair, representatives will be available from some of the concentrations offered at the university: Asian Studies, Environmental Studies, Health Humanities, Latin American & Latinx Studies, and Women's & Gender Studies.
Concentration Fair In Denaples Center Fireplace Lounge
The Royden B. Davis, S. J., Distinguished Author Award presentation honors Ayad Akhtar, Friday, Nov.18, 2022.
Akhtar is a novelist and playwright whose work has been published and performed in over two dozen languages. He is the winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, the Edith Wharton Citation of Merit for Fiction, and an Award in Literature from the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
Works he has authored include: "Homeland Elegies" (Little, Brown & Co.), which The Washington Post called “a tour de force” and The New York Times called “a beautiful novel…that had echoes of 'The Great Gatsby' and that circles, with pointed intellect, the possibilities and limitations of American life.” His first novel, "American Dervish" (Little, Brown & Co.), was published in over 20 languages.
As a playwright, he has written "Junk" (Lincoln Center, Broadway; Kennedy Prize for American Drama, Tony nomination); "Disgraced" (Lincoln Center, Broadway; Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Tony nomination); "The Who & The What" (Lincoln Center); and "The Invisible Hand" (NYTW; Obie Award, Outer Critics Circle John Gassner Award, Olivier, and Evening Standard nominations).
Among other honors, Akhtar is the recipient of the Steinberg Playwrighting Award, the Nestroy Award, the Erwin Piscator Award, as well as fellowships from the American Academy in Rome, MacDowell, the Sundance Institute, and Yaddo, where he serves as a Board Director. Additionally, Ayad is a Board Trustee at New York Theatre Workshop, and PEN America, where he serves as President. In 2021, Akhtar was named the New York State Author, succeeding Colson Whitehead, by the New York State Writers Institute.
This event is a fundraiser for the Weinberg Memorial Library.
Visit scranton.edu/authaward to reserve tickets and/or sponsor the event.
Pulitzer prize-winning author and playwright to accept award
The Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Virtual Speaker Series, presented by the JA Panuska College of Professional Studies and the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment, offers a virtual conference with new topics and a new format. Registration is required for each program.
Oct. 12, 2022
1 - 3 p.m. EST
"Career Opportunities in the Changing Workplace"
Panel Moderator: Kathy West Evans, MPA, CRC Director of Business Relations, National Employment Team (NET), Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation ( CSAVR).
Join a panel of business partners to learn about their companies and trends that are shaping the future workplace in the U.S. Participants will learn more about the NET, as well as key business partners representing the private and public sector – UnitedHealth Group, Dell and the U.S. Department of Transportation. Discussions will include the ways these companies are responding to workplace changes. Also, they will offer insight on working with the VR-NET to ensure that their talent pipeline includes candidates with disabilities, as well as supporting employees with disabilities throughout their employment life cycle.
October 19, 2022
1- 3:00 p.m. EST
"Embedding Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility: A Cultural Shift for Business Communities, and You!"
Speakers: Hattie McCarter, MS, CRC, CEO of MEND Consulting Solutions, Certified DEI Professional and Stephanie Perry, MSW, LSW DEI Consultant
Since May 2020, the need for embedding diversity into an organization's structure has been an ebb and flow for most of this nation. Although the need has become more significant, the cultivating passion has been here for over seven decades. Some understand the impact that Diversity Equity Inclusion and Accessibility has on its employees, business, and overall culture, while others are content with surface level efforts. Diversity is not about volume; it’s about having a human-centered approach in creating a safe space for individuals to show up authentically and perform to their full potential.
Participants in this course can expect to meet the following objectives:
- Develop an understanding on how to “cultivate“ a work culture that embraces equity, inclusion, and accessibility to promote the success of businesses, consumers (internal/external) and the surrounding communities.
- Develop an intersectional lens in working with people with diverse backgrounds and lived experience
- Establish skills on how to become an Inclusive Leader (or Champion)
- Identify key factors in implementing B.R.A.V.E Conversations
October 26, 2022
1 - 3:00 p.m. EST
"A Framework for Community Engagement: A Pathway to Employment"
Speakers: Cayte Anderson, Ph.D., CRC and Emily Brinck, Ph.D., LPC, CRC, Researchers at the University of Wisconsin Madison, VRTAC-QE
The aim of the Technical Assistance Center for Quality Employment (VRTAC-QE) is to help State and Local VR agency personnel and their partners increase the number and quality of employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. This session provides an overview of the rich array of resources and training available through VRTAC-QE, and various types of technical assistance available through the center. The presenters will highlight specific examples of innovative and effective practices, opportunities to learn more, and tools that can be implemented in practice.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Describe the meaning of ‘quality’ as it relates to employment and disability.
- Introduce the concept of Quality Employment into local and state VR service delivery.
- Know where to find effective resources to support Quality Employment practice in local and state VR service delivery.
- Identify effective employment strategies leading to improved employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities.
Annual U.S. Conference on Disability Goes Virtual
A virtual lecture series in October will examine career opportunities in the changing workplace, ways of embedding Equity Diversity Inclusion and Accessibility in an organization to promote the success of the business, employees and the surrounding communities, and the resources available through the Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center for Quality Employment (VRTAC-QE). The Edward R. Leahy, Jr., Virtual Speaker Series, presented by The University of Scranton’s Panuska College of Professional Studies and the Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Endowment, is free of charge. Registration is required to participate and can be made by visiting the lecture series website.
On Wednesday, Oct. 12, from 1 to 3 p.m. (E.S.T.) Kathy West-Evans, director of business relations at National Employment Team (NET), will lead a panel discussion of business partners from the private and public sector to discuss current trends shaping the workplace and ways their companies are working together with the Vocational Rehabilitation NET to ensure that their talent pipeline includes candidates with disabilities as well as supporting employees with disabilities throughout their employment life cycle.
Panelists are Andrea Eselunas, director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for UnitedHealth Group; Ethan Idzior, software developer, for Dell Technologies; and Duronne Walker, Ph.D., departmental selective placement program manager for the U.S. Department of Transportation. Panel moderator, West-Evans, who leads the NET is a certified rehabilitation counselor. A sought-after consultant and presenter on topic areas related to serving individuals with disabilities and business through a dual-customer approach, West-Evans first started in the field of rehabilitation in 1978.
On Wednesday, Oct. 19, from 1 to 3 p.m., Hattie McCarter, CEO/founder of McCarter’s Equitable and Distinctive (M.E.N.D) Consulting Solutions, L.L.C., and Stephanie Perry, a licensed social worker with a diverse educational and professional background, will discuss a human centered Equity Diversity Inclusion and Accessibility approach that creates a safe space for individuals to be authentic and perform to their full potential. McCarter is a Certified DEI Professional, with more than 13 years of experience in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as well as more than seven years in recruitment and retention. Her company, MEND, specializes in DEI program development, employee resource groups, diversity recruitment and how to have BRAVE conversations. With more than 20 years of experience, Perry is completing the last year for a doctorate in social work. She earned her bachelor’s degree in behavioral counseling from Drexel University and a Master of Social Service Management degree from Bryn Mawr College.
On Wednesday, Oct. 26, from 1 to 3 p.m. Catherine Anderson, Ph.D., director of research for the University of Wisconsin-Stout Vocational Rehabilitation Institute and researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the Wisconsin Center for Education Research (WCER) and Dr. Emily A. Brinck, Ph.D., also a researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the WCER, will discuss the array of resources and training available through VRTAC-QE, as well as the types of technical assistance offered. The presenters will highlight specific examples of innovative and effective practices, opportunities to learn more and tools that can be implemented in practice.
Dr. Anderson has more than 25 years of leadership experience with numerous research, demonstration and systems-change grants. Her research interests include: understanding and improving employment, career and financial post-secondary outcomes for youth with disabilities; transition-age youth and families; interagency collaboration between education and vocational rehabilitation; cultural responsiveness with low-income and marginalized disability populations; and use of evidence-based practices within vocational rehabilitation. Dr. Brinck’s research interests include: interagency collaboration between schools, vocational rehabilitation, and employers; transition-age youth with disabilities towards successful postsecondary outcomes; and overcoming barriers to employment for people with disabilities.
Registration and additional information is available online or by contacting Rebecca Spirito Dalgin, Ph.D., director of the Rehabilitation Counseling Program, at rebecca.dalgin@scranton.edu; or Lori Bruch, Ed.D., chair of the Counseling and Human Services Department, at lori.bruch@scranton.edu. The University’s annual U.S. Conference on DISABILITY will return next year on Oct. 4, 2023.
Virtual Lecture Series Planned for October
Representatives from NASA met with high school and University of Scranton students, as well as local business owners and manufacturers, to discuss career paths, space technology and ways companies and individuals can support Artemis, a robotic and human Moon exploration program led by NASA.
Campus events, which spanned two days, included a panel discussion on NASA careers with Niki Werkheiser, director for Technology Maturation, Space Technology Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters; Jason L. Kessler, program executive, Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Program, Space Technology Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters; and Stephanie Yeldell, education integration lead, Space Technology Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters. University of Scranton physics professor Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., moderated the panel discussion on Sept. 22. Earlier that day, Werkheiser met with Scranton students at an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) meeting.
On Sept. 23, NASA hosted the NASA Northeast Pennsylvania Industry Day, a networking event focused on collaboration opportunities with local businesses. The event at the University’s DeNaples Center included national and local speakers, presentations, and networking opportunities in collaboration with the Keystone Space Collaborative, Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center, and Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance Procurement Technical Assistance Center. Local business owners, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and university representatives attended the free event. U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright also participated in the event.
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By: Claire Sunday '23, student correspondent
Professor Michele Boland joins The University of Scranton as a new faculty member in the Department of Nursing at the Panuska College of Professional Studies.
Her breadth of experience includes work in clinical and hospice care in large, inner-city hospitals and more insular community facilities. At the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, her roles encompassed administration and critical care nursing. At the Presbyterian Hospital in Philadelphia, she worked in administrative and supervisory roles.
“Each facet of nursing within which I have worked has provided me with a diverse skill set and a broad knowledge base that I am able to share with my students,” Prof. Boland said.
WHAT are two takeaways students can gain from Professor Boland's Experiences?
1. Nursing offers a broad range of professional opportunities.
Prof. Boland brings 15 years of nursing education experience to the university. Her professionial background demonstrates the range of opportunities available to students. Previously, she served as a faculty member at the Career Technology Center Practical Nursing Program in Scranton and the Delaware County Practical Nursing program in Philadelphia.
2. Impactful moments in patient care can change the course of a career.
When asked to share a career-affirming moment, Prof. Boland recalled her work as a young hospice nurse. Her first patient, a terminally ill man, was a devoted Philadelphia Phillies fan. To put him at ease and create an environment of comfort, she would review game statistics and news about the team in advance of her visits. The two established a bond. After his passing, his wife shared with Boland that he had viewed her as one of his best friends.
Prof. Boland said she has never forgotten this conversation and wants her students to understand that these impactful moments are part of the nursing profession. Through the profession of nursing, Prof. Boland said she has found love, passion, and joy.
WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND TO SOMEONE INTERESTED IN PURSUING A CAREER IN YOUR FIELD?
Prof. Boland reminds her students to explore the diverse fields in nursing. Students have opportunities to work as advanced practitioners, administrators in hospitals and healthcare systems, specialists in end-of-life case management, and educators.
“The one-on-one nurse-patient relationship will always serve as the basis of our profession, however, the present and future of nursing affords graduates with many more opportunities than might first come to mind,” Prof. Boland said.
MEET PROFESSOR Michele Boland
Professor Michele Boland earned a master's degree in nursing education from the University of Phoenix and graduated from the University of Delaware with a bachelor's degree in nursing. She is currently pursuing a certification in nursing education and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau. In 2022, she was hired as a lecturer in The University of Scranton department of Nursing. To the department, Prof. Boland brings 15 years of nursing education experience.
ON THE LIGHTER SIDE
As the mother to three, Amanda, Brian, and Paige, Prof. Boland said that her nursing skills are also put to use at home. When finds the opportunity to relax, it's with her family and with music, television, or books. Her favorite music artist is Coldplay, and her most recent binge-worthy Netflix show is "Outlander". She also has just read "Where the Crawdads Sing," and would recommend it.
FACULTY PROFILES: A CONVERSATION WITH Professor Michele Boland
The “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project, a National Endowment for the Humanities-funded initiative of The University of Scranton and community partner organizations, will be highlighting two themes with major upcoming events this fall. One will feature international writers with an interactive story exchange as a part of the project’s “From ‘Immigrant’ to Citizen” theme, and the other, the return of an enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe to his ancestral homeland as a part of the project’s “Indigenous History of NEPA” theme.
To celebrate and pay tribute to the histories and stories of Scranton’s immigrants, past and present, on Tuesday, Oct. 25, the University and partners will host a special interactive event, “All the Places We Come From: Stories, Food, & Community.” The evening will begin with appetizers and sweets from Scranton's multi-ethnic restaurants, include story-sharing around the theme of migration, and feature nationally- acclaimed writers Anna Badhken, Angie Cruz, Chinelo Okparanta, and Joseph O’Neill. The program will be facilitated by the artist-driven international empathy building organization, Narrative 4, and will provide an opportunity to consider the place of culture and migration in our local and national identity. Doors will open at 5:30 pm and the event will run from 6 - 7:30 in Shopland Hall, Scranton Cultural Center. Register at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/placeswecomefrom.
The migration theme also includes a connected Hope Horn Gallery Exhibition, "Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala. Photographs by Byron Maldonado," which runs from Oct. 7 - Nov. 18. Then, on Dec. 5, a roundtable discussion,“The Journey from ‘Immigrant’ to Citizen” will feature local resource speakers from a range of backgrounds, in collaboration with the Schemel Forum.
In November, the project will return to the theme of “Indigenous History of NEPA” with a very special event, “Forced Removal of the Lenape People: History and Homecoming,” a keynote talk with Curtis Zunigha. He is an enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians in Oklahoma and co-director and co-founder of the Lenape Center in New York. Now living and working in Lenapehoking, the Lenape ancestral homeland, Zunigha will share his experience and mission to heal the wounds of forced removal and colonization and his desire to restore the circle of friendship, respect, and shared occupancy. This event will take place on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. in The DeNaples Center Ballroom at The University of Scranton. It marks the first return of Zunigha to this part of his ancestral homeland. Registration required at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Zunigha. This visit will coincide with Native American History month and is also sponsored by the University’s Office of Equity and Diversity.
For more information and to view upcoming events and recordings of past events, please visit www.scranton.edu/scrantonstory.
Questions? Contact community@scranton.edu or call 570-941-4419.
Follow the Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story project on social media at: Facebook and Instagram @ourscrantonstory and on Twitter at @scrantonstory
Major Upcoming ‘Scranton’s Story’ Events to Highlight Migration and Native American Experiences
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague’s accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!
THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for October 2022 is: Jimmy Piazza - Carpenter
How long have you worked for the University?
I have worked for the university for almost 38 years as a Carpenter in our Trades Division.What do you like best about your job?
Best part of his job is that every day, something is different. I travel all over campus and get to interact with everyone at one time or another.
What do you like to do for fun?
In my spare time I enjoy tinkering with cars. None compare to my first car – a 1974 Plymouth Duster.We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Jimmy does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Jimmy and all our nominees.
Jimmy will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University foodservice outlets, as well as a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for the month of October. Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition event in May to receive a certificate of appreciation.
We congratulate our winner and all nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!
October 2022 Nominees:
Dina Angeloni, CHEW
Angel Bladt, Mailing Services
Erin Boughton, Facilities – Katherine Drexel House
Tom Cody, Infrastructure & Security Services
Steve Hallock, Facilities – Nevils Hall
Karl Johns, Technology Support Services
Tom Kern, IT Client Services
Barbara King, Office of Student Life
Jill Lear, Nursing Department
Karen Marx, KSOM Advising
Danielle Morse, IT
Denise Mullen, Facilities
Carl O’Neil, Advancement
Glen Pace, IT Client Services
Kevin Stanford, KSOM Advising
JoAnn Stavisky, Facilities – Retreat Center
Adam Szydlowski- KSOM Advising
John Tabor - Finance
Kyle Thomas - Facilities – McGurrin Hall
Cindy Tokash - Math & Computer Science
Richard Trygar- Chemistry
MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER, OCTOBER
The University of Scranton Office of Community Relations together with community partners, Scranton Tomorrow and Lackawanna County, are pleased to host Dr. Wonhyung Lee of the University of Albany on Oct. 6, 9 - 10:30 a.m. to speak about her research around the theme: “A Space for Everyone: Building Equity into Downtown Revitalization.”
This presentation with Q&A and discussion will draw on case studies and best practices considering the potentials and pitfalls involved in development and revitalization efforts and the needs of marginalized populations in urban areas and particularly downtown cores.
A light continental breakfast will be served. Event will take place in Kane Forum, Leahy Hall. Open to the campus and public. Email community@scranton.edu to rsvp.
Building Equity into Downtown Revitalization
By: Kelly Nee '23, student correspondent
Dr. Brian Snee is an Associate Professor in the Communication and Media Department who is native to the Northeastern Pennsylvania area. He has worked for The University of Scranton since 2020 and is the author or co-author of several books, book chapters and journal articles. In 2017, he led a TEDx Talk titled "How the Virtue of Eloquence Became a Vice."
Here, he discusses his emphasis on teaching "practical, marketable skills," the connectivity of Community-Based Learning, and an event on campus he looks forward to every year.
What do you recommend to someone interested in pursuing a career in your field?
"I always tell my students to think about their dream job. Professional athlete? Movie star? Famous musician? Fashion designer? Social media influencer? President of the United States? Whatever you are interested in, communication and media is a way to make that field central to your professional life. You may not make it to the NFL, but you can make it to ESPN. You may not become president, but you can work for CNN or Fox News. You make not become a recording artist, but you can make documentaries about the music you love."
Why should students consider a major in the communication and media department?
"Most people work at a job they do not truly enjoy, and then in their free time they consume media content. We get to combine the two, getting paid to read and write and think and talk and create that which is genuinely interesting to us. That’s not a bad way to make a living."
What has been the biggest accomplishment of your career?
"My family is the biggest accomplishment of my life. But as for my professional life? Probably finishing my Ph.D. at Penn State. Had I not crossed that goal line, the jobs I’ve had and the books I’ve published and the students I’ve taught never would have become the wonderful world in which I get to live and work."
How do you think the university's Jesuit mission has impacted your time as a professor?
"I have fully embraced the university’s commitment to Community-Based Learning. Giving my students the opportunity to work with and for important non-profits and small family businesses in NEPA is the most Ignatian aspect of my teaching."
"I hope that my deep dive into Community-Based Learning is one of the ways in which I contribute to Communication and Media. In fact, this year I’m excited to serve as a C-BL Fellow, working with the C-BL office to make community connectivity and commitment central to the experience that I offer in my classes."
What are your current research interests?
"I’m currently working on several projects about the PA Senate race between [Democratic Lt. Gov. John John] Fetterman and [Dr. Mehmet] Oz. It’s absolutely fascinating. I’ve never seen anything quite like it."
How would you describe the culture of your department?
"It’s a tightly-knit community. Perhaps because we are somewhat isolated in the Comm's Wing of St. Thomas, we interact on a daily basis, and not just in class or in faculty meetings. Everyone knows everyone."
What IS your strength as an instructor?
"I’d like to think it’s my focus on the development of practical, marketable skills that are built of a solid foundation of liberal arts education in the Jesuit tradition. Even when I fall short, that is always my goal. I also try to be the kind of instructor who takes the work seriously, but not himself. We can learn and have fun at the same time."
MEET Dr. Brian Snee
Dr. Brian Snee earned a doctorate amd master's degree in communication arts and science from Penn State University; and a bachelor's degree in communication from The University of Scranton. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Snee received several grants and awards, and in the area of curriculum development, he created a Digital Media Production B.A. degree program at Manhattanville College.
ON THE LIGHTER SIDE
"On Saturdays, I root for Notre Dame and Penn State football. In the car, I listen to podcasts more than music (I have a four-hour round trip commute…). And Netflix has yet to replace 'Ozark' or 'Better Call Saul' with anything nearly as good."
Is there an event or tradition on campus that you look forward to every year?
"There is nothing more exciting than the first week of fall classes. Although it means back to school and back to work, it also means the campus comes alive again with students, faculty and staff, all of whom are excited about another year at the U."
FACULTY PROFILE: A Conversation with Dr. Brian Snee
September
View September Listing Page
The University of Scranton’s President’s Business Council (PBC) presented Patti Byrnes Clarke ’86, P’17,’19, global chief talent officer, Havas Group; and Tom O’Brien ’86, P’19, senior managing director, SumRidge Partners, a Raymond James company; with the President’s Medals at its 21st Annual Award Dinner on Sept. 29 at Gotham Hall in New York City. Proceeds from the gala, which raised more than $1.1 million, support the University’s Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund.
“Our University has been blessed to be able to honor so many extraordinary individuals over the years and this year is no different. We are privileged to count among them our alumni Patricia Byrnes Clarke and Tom P. O’Brien of the class of 1986,” said Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton in his remarks.
The President’s Medal recognizes individuals who have achieved excellence in their fields and demonstrated extraordinary compassion for others, representing lifetime achievements that reflect the University’s mission of Catholic and Jesuit excellence and service.
“Patti and Tom are highly successful professionals who have had a tremendous impact on generations of alumni,” said Frank Pearn ’83, global chief compliance officer, JPMorgan Chase and Co., and chair of the President’s Business Council, in his remarks at the dinner. “They truly embody everything that the PBC aims to represent and, given the way that they share their talents, gifts and insights, they are wonderful examples of St. Ignatius’s quote that ‘Love is shown more in deeds than in words.’”
Through its past celebrations, the PBC has generated more than $19 million for the University’s Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund. Presidential Scholarships are four-year, full-tuition scholarships awarded to incoming freshmen at Scranton with both outstanding records in high school and notable community involvement.
Class of 2023 Presidential Scholar Dominic Finan ’23, Malvern, a neuroscience and philosophy double major in the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, spoke at the award dinner on behalf of the Presidential Scholars.
Other Presidential Scholars of the University’s class of 2023 are: Emily Amershek, New Ringgold, a philosophy major and member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program; Lauren Cawley, Duryea, a secondary education – mathematics and mathematics double major; Matthew Earley, Perkasie, a finance major and member of the University’s Business Honors Program and the Business Leadership Honors Program; Michael Edwards, Wadsworth, Ohio, a mathematics and philosophy double major and member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program; Jared Fernandez, Tunkhannock, a nursing major; Timothy Gallagher, River Vale, New Jersey, a computer science and philosophy double major and member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program; Angela Hudock, Sayer, a biochemistry, cell and molecular biology major and member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM; Amanda Lamphere, Sellersville, a mathematics and computer science double major; James Lanning, Mountain Top, a chemistry major; Sarah Liskowicz, Wilkes-Barre, a neuroscience and biomathematics double major and member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program; Molly Neeson, Pottstown, an environmental science major and member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program; Michael Quinnan, Shavertown, a biomathematics major and member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM; Muhammad Shaaf Sarwar, Qazalbash Chowk, Pakistan, a physics and mathematical sciences double major; Cameron Shedlock, White Haven, a neuroscience major and member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM; Claire Sunday, South Abington Township, a theology and religious studies and philosophy double major and member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program and undergraduate Honors Program; Kathleen Wallace, Bowie, Maryland, a philosophy and theology and religious studies double major and member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program; and Daniel Zych, Waverly, a mathematics major.
“Collectively, the 18 of us (from the class of 2023) have 28 majors, 18 minors, and 5 concentrations. … These academic pursuits, research opportunities and moments of profound growth would not be possible without the contributions of everyone in this room. So, for that I say thank you. Thank you for empowering our unique gifts, talents, and interests; and thank you, most importantly, for helping us call The University of Scranton our home. You have changed our lives, and our family’s lives, for the better,” said. Finan. “The generosity of the President’s Business Council cleared a path for us to become future lawyers, doctors, actuaries, educators, researchers, and business executives alike. We promise to use the spark you ignited in us to ‘go forth and set the world on fire.’”
In accepting their awards, Byrnes Clarke and O’Brien talked about why they became involved with the PBC and in giving back to the University.
“I got involved with the PBC because I wanted to try to give back to students and help with mentoring and job placement,” said O’Briem. “Early in my career, a fellow Scranton alumnus who I did not know helped me. … I need to do this because someone a long time ago helped me.”
“The exposure to Scranton and its students and its alumni challenged me to take on my own journey to do more and to do better as a person, a family member, a leader and a friend,” said Byrnes Clarke. “It’s true that as Scranton students we are exposed to the Ignatian values, but aren’t always mature enough to overtly put them into practice in our lives. But, with a Scranton education, that Ignaitan foundation is always there. And when you choose to be engaged, and get involved and give back to Scranton, you get this very special opportunity to explore those Ignaitan roots.”
For more information on the PBC, contact Executive Director Timothy J. Pryle ’89 at 570-941-5837 or pbc@scranton.edu, or visit scranton.edu/pbc.
About Patti Byrnes Clarke
During her time at the Havas Group, which is one of the world’s largest global communications groups and part of the Vivendi Group, Patti Byrnes Clarke has built a talent management approach that includes initiatives on network mobility, high-potential leadership development, women’s leadership advancement, global employee engagement, employer branding, global diversity, equity and inclusion and wellness. As the global chief talent officer, she is responsible for leading the talent and cultural strategy for the group’s 20,000 plus employees in more than 100 countries.
Byrnes Clarke earned her bachelor’s degree in management from the University in 1986. She is a former member of the University’s Board of Trustees and a former member of the Kania School of Management Advisory Board and the University’s Parents’ Executive Council (PEC). She is also a former chair of the PBC and created the PBC/Kania School of Management Career Coaches Program, in which she remains a mentor to current University students. She and her husband, David, reside in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, and have five children.
About Tom O’Brien
Prior to the acquisition of SumRidge Partners, LLC, by Raymond James in July 2022, Tom O’Brien was a co-founder, chief executive officer and president of SumRidge Partners, L.LC., which formed in 2010. SumRidge Partners is a top-ranked electronic fixed income market maker specializing in high-yield, investment-grade corporate bonds, municipal bonds, institutional preferred securities, and emerging market bonds. Prior to launching SumRidge Partners, O’Brien was co-head of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney’s Capital Markets division and was also a member of the firm’s management and risk committees.
O’Brien earned his bachelor’s degree of economics/finance from the University in 1986 and a master of business administration from Fordham University. He is a former member of the University’s Board of Trustees, where he served as vice chair, and was a former chair of the PBC. Today, he acts as a mentor to current University students and frequently teaches in the fixed income securities and markets course, which he co-developed with the late Frank Corcione, Ph.D., and Murli Rajan, Ph.D., G’84. He resides in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, with his wife, Denise, and their three sons.
$content.getChild('content').textValuePBC Dinner Exceeds Fundraising Goal
The University of Scranton has awarded 15 students from its class of 2026 four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarships.
Presidential Scholarships are awarded to incoming first-year students with outstanding records in high school and notable community involvement. The scholarship covers four years of full tuition provided that the student maintains at least a 3.25 grade point average.
Matthew J. Almonte, East Stroudsburg, graduated from East Stroudsburg High School South. A member of National Honor Society, he received the Bausch + Lomb Science Award. He was a member the Scholastic Scrimmage Team, and the varsity soccer team, serving as honorary captain during his senior year. He also received recognition as a Lehigh Valley Soccer Scholar. Almonte volunteered with the Emanuel Church media team, worship team (drummer) and was a group leader at Vacation Bible School. He also volunteered at Salvation Army Food Drive and as a running buddy for Girls on the Run. A member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM, Almonte will major in mathematics. He is the son of Juan and Lisa Almonte.
Luca Baratta, Richboro, graduated from Perkiomen School in Pennsburg. He was a member of National Honor Society, the National English Honors Society and the Latin Honors Society. A member of the varsity basketball team, he received the Most Improved Player Award at Perkiomen for his senior year and at Council Rock South High School, Holland, as a junior. He will be a member of the Royals men’s basketball team. In high school, he also participated in track and field, golf, the Latin Club and Future Business Leaders of America. Baratta volunteered as at Camp PALS, the CYO Basketball Camp and Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, as well as other service programs. A member of the University’s Business Honors Program, Baratta will major in finance. He is the son of Anthony and Patricia Baratta.
Riley P. Clarke, Scranton, graduated as salutatorian of Scranton High School. He was a member of the National Honor Society and participated in the Ski Club. Clarke volunteered at Friends of the Poor. He will major in computer science. He is the son of Kevin and Jessica Clarke.
Alyssa M. Cosklo, Carbondale, graduated as valedictorian from Carbondale Area High School. She was a member of the National Junior Honor Society and vice president of the National Honor Society. She received multiple first place awards at regional and state Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science competitions. She also received awards at Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) regional and state competitions and was the winner of the 2019 VFW essay contest. Cosklo was captain of the varsity cheerleading squad and a member of the girls’ varsity soccer and track and field teams. She was class president and vice president for Student Council; vice president for FBLA Region 22; treasurer for the school chapter of FBLA; president of the Future Teachers Club; and vice president of Students Against Destructive Decisions. She participated in the Spanish Club, Science and Technology Club, Mock Trial, Yearbook Club and Future Medical Careers Club, among other student organizations. Cosklo volunteered with the Carbondale Area High School Tutoring Club. A member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM, Cosklo will major in biology on the premed track. She is the daughter of David and Kimberly Cosklo.
Rebecca R. Doyle, Massapequa, New York, graduated from Kellenberg Memorial High School. She was a member of the National Honor Society. She was also a member of the A team of Science Olympiad Club. She participated in all three of her high school’s choirs, through which she sang at masses, funerals and at a 9/11 memorial service at Point Lookout. A member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Doyle will major in neuroscience on the premed track. She is the daughter of Michael and Janet Doyle.
Dean J. Finan, Malvern, graduated from Great Valley High School. A National Merit Commended Scholar and an AP Scholar with Distinction, he received Pennsylvania’s Certificate of Merit for outstanding performance on the SAT and received a Silver Medal and Certificate of Honorable Merit for Outstanding Performance in the National Latin Examination. Finan was a member of the National Honor Society, the Latin Honor Society, the America Club, the Junior Classical League and served as secretary of the Finance Club. He was captain of his high school soccer team and participated in track and field. He is a member of the University’s soccer team. He co-founded and organized a soccer equipment drive that collected and donated cleats, kits, socks and other items to underprivileged children in his community. A member of the University’s Business Honors Program, Finan will major in finance. He is the son of Donald and Deborah Finan.
Matthew George, Avoca, graduated from Scranton Preparatory School. He was a member of the National Honor Society. He participated in the Book Club, the Spanish Club and the Service Club. He volunteered at Allied Services nursing home in Wilkes-Barre. George has not yet declared a major. He is the son of Gene and Helene George, who received her bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton in 1996 and her master’s degree in 1999.
Emily Alexa C. Gotiangco, Staten Island, New York, graduated from St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School as a full-scholarship recipient of their honors program. A National Merit Commended Scholar and an AP Scholar with Honor, she achieved perfect score on the National Latin Exam. She was a member of the National Honor Society. She was a member of her school’s archery team that won the New York state tournament. She was also a member of the Viking Voices choir and was senior vice president of the Ladies of Charity. Gotiangco volunteered as a tutor for mathematics, science and English and helped serve Thanksgiving meals to the homeless. She was also an altar server at St. Sylvester Parish in Staten Island. A member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM, Gotiangco will major in computer science. She is the daughter of Jose and Mildred Gotiangco.
Allison M. Magee, Harleysville, graduated from Souderton Area High School. An AP Scholar with Distinction, she was treasurer of the National Honor Society. She was captain of the girls’ varsity tennis team. She was also treasurer for the Future Business Leaders of America, vice president of Recycle The Cycle and participated in Student Government and Link Crew. A member of University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program and the Magis Honors Program in STEM, Magee will major in mathematical sciences. She is the daughter of Dave and Carolyn Magee.
Joseph T. Maguire, Islip, New York, graduated from Saint John the Baptist Diocesan High School. A National Merit Commended Scholar, he was a member of the National Honor Society, as well as the science, English, Rho Kappa social studies, Spanish, math and Tri- M music honor societies. He was captain of the men’s varsity volleyball team and both the fall and winter varsity crew teams. He was named one of long island presses top scholar athletes and received the New York State Board of education scholarship for academic excellence. He was also a member of Student Council and the Good Samaritan Hospital WE CARE program. Maguire volunteered as a as a counselor at Saint Patrick’s of Bayshore faith camp. He also served as a peer tutor, wrote book reviews for a library and participated in local beach clean ups. Maguire will major in biochemistry cell and molecular biology on the pre-med track. He is the son of Robert and Kathleen Maguire.
Michael L. Redmond, Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, graduated from Hunterdon Central Regional High School, Flemington, New Jersey. An AP Scholar with Distinction, he was a member of the National Honor Society and earned a seal of bi-literacy for Spanish. He was captain of the varsity hockey team. Redmond volunteered at the Flemington Food Pantry. During the COVID quarantine, he hosted neighborhood food drives. He also raised more than $1,700 for the Patrick’s Pals Foundation through his high school’s annual water wars tournament. A member of University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM, Redmond will major in biophysics. He is the son of Michael, who is a 1993 graduate of The University of Scranton, and Ann-Marie Redmond.
Matthew C. Saita, Scranton, graduated as valedictorian of Scranton High School. He was president of the National Honor Society. He was named a Scranton Times-Tribune Scholastic Superstar, an NEIU Scholar of the Year and received a P.I.A.A. District II Scholar-Athlete Award. He was a four-year member of the school’s baseball team. He was also a Senior Class Officer. He participated in the Coaches vs. Cancer program and volunteered at Christmas to deliver poinsettias to shut-ins at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scranton. He will major in business administration. He is the son of Carmine and Linda Saita.
Matthew F. Schade, Haddon Heights, New Jersey, graduated from St. Joseph’s Preparatory School in Philadelphia. An AP Scholar with Distinction, he was a member of the National Honor Society. He was a member of the varsity soccer team and captain of Ultimate Frisbee team. He was a member of the Travis Manion Leadership Academy. Schade participated in a service trip to Sacred Heart Church in Richmond, Virgina. He also volunteered at St. Rose of Lima vacation bible school and at various community cleanups and food donation programs. A member of University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM, Schade will major in mathematical sciences. He is the son of Bill and Jackie Schade.
Rachel E. Tuman, Lake Ariel, graduated as valedictorian frim Western Wayne High School. A 2022 Scranton Times-Tribune Scholastic Superstar and a NEIU Scholar of the Year, she was president of the National Honor Society. She received a Bishop’s Youth Award from the Diocese of Scranton and a Daughters of the American Revolution “Good Citizen” Award. She was captain of the girls’ varsity tennis team and participated in the varsity softball team and basketball cheerleading squad. She was senior class vice president for Student Council; president of St. Thomas More Youth Group; vice president of the Scholastic Scrimmage team; and Operations Manager for the Western Wayne School Store, among other activities. She was also senior vice-president for Future Business Leaders of America and was a national competitor in several categories and placed in state and regional competitions. She volunteered at “Tree for New Life” and was an alter server at St. Thomas More/St. Mary Parish in Lake Ariel. A member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Tuman will major in business administration on the pre-law track. She is the daughter of Michael and Ellen Tuman.
Ashlyn Urbanski, Pittston Township, graduated as valedictorian from Scranton Preparatory School. An AP Scholar with Distinction, she is a member of the National Honor Society. She was named a 2022 Scranton Times-Tribune Scholastic Superstar and NEIU Scholar of the Year. She was awarded a gold medal on National Latin Exam and a bronze medal on National Spanish Exam. She also received a Bishop’s Youth Award from the Diocese of Scranton. She won the Paderewski Gold Medal for 10 years of National Guild piano auditions and was also a Carnegie Hall Winner for piano. Urbanski participated on the lacrosse, cross country and swimming teams and was a member of Student Council, Books for Bedtime Club and secretary for the Technology Student Association. She volunteered as a peer tutor for StudyHard NEPA and was co-founder for Queen of the Apostles Youth Group, among other activities. Urbanski has not yet declared a major. She is the daughter of Chris and Tammy Urbanski.
Scranton Names Class of 2026 Presidential Scholars
The University of Scranton, a nationally recognized Jesuit university in northeast Pennsylvania, will host two Open House events for prospective students and their families on Sunday, Oct. 23, and Sunday, Nov. 6.
“Best 388 Colleges,” “Best Buys in College Education,” “America’s Best Colleges,” “A Focus on Student Success,” “Best Undergraduate Teaching,” “Best Catholic Colleges” – these are just a few of the ways that the nation’s leading college rankings and guidebooks consistently refer to The University of Scranton. For 29 consecutive years, U.S. News & World Report has ranked Scranton among the 10 top Master’s Universities in the North. The Princeton Review included Scranton in its list “Best Colleges” for 21 consecutive years and in its ranking of the nation’s “Best Science Labs” (No. 7) for six years, among other rankings.
At the Open House, participants can learn about Scranton’s 69 undergraduate majors, meet with faculty, students, admissions counselors and financial aid representatives. Student-led campus tours will be conducted throughout the day and will include residence halls, dining halls, computer labs, science labs and academic facilities.
In addition, representatives of student organizations, athletic teams and Scranton’s programs of excellence, such as the undergraduate Honors Program, Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Magis Honors Program in STEM, Business Honors Program and Business Leadership Honors Program, will also be available.
For additional information, contact Scranton’s Admissions Office at 1-888-SCRANTON or visit Scranton’s Open House webpage.
$content.getChild('content').textValueOpen House Set for Oct. 23 and Nov. 6
The University of Scranton ranked No. 47 among the 603 master’s universities in the nation included in a 2022 listing by Washington Monthly that seeks to rate colleges based on their contribution to the public good. Published in the September/October issue of the magazine and online, Washington Monthly analyzed numerous data sets to determine an overall rank based on what “schools do for the country.” According to the publication, they rank “four-year schools (national universities, liberal arts colleges, baccalaureate colleges, and master’s universities) based on their contribution to the public good in three broad categories: social mobility, research, and providing opportunities for public service.”
Washington Monthly also ranked the colleges in categories for “research,” “community and national service” and “social mobility.” Scranton ranked No. 39, No. 52 and No. 124, respectively, in these categories among master’s universities.
Washington Monthly weighted equally the colleges’ scores for research, social mobility and service to calculate the overall ranking. The research score is based on each school’s research expenditure and the number of alumni earning Ph.D.s, relative to the size of the college. The social mobility score is based on actual and predicted graduation rates; student loan repayment rates; the percentage of students receiving Pell Grants; and the school’s average net price for full-time, in-state students with family incomes below $75,000 per year over the past three years, among other factors. The service score, also adjusted for the size of the school, is based on the size of the ROTC program; the number of alumni serving in the Peace Corps; and the percentage of federal work study grant money spent on community service projects and voter engagement, among other factors.
This is the 13th consecutive year Washington Monthly has included Scranton in its college rankings.
In other national rankings, U.S. News & World Report ranked Scranton No. 5 among regional universities in the north in its 2023 guidebook, marking the 29th consecutive year that Scranton ranked in the top 10. The Princeton Review included Scranton in its list of “Best Colleges” for 21 consecutive years, and ranked the University No. 7 in the nation for “Best Science Lab Facilities” in its latest edition of the guidebook.
Scranton Ranked in Top 50 for Doing Public Good
A rich burst of color shines in the predominately black and white image of Rose Cuy, highlighting the beauty of Mayan traditional dress that is all-too-quickly fading from the town of San Lucas Tolimán in Guatemala.
Byron Maldonado hopes his photographs of elderly women of his village who still wear traditional Mayan clothes will help remind people in his town, and inform people the greater community, of the richness of Mayan culture.
“I hope to remind people of the importance of traditions that are being lost,” said Maldonado of the images he took in 2012 which will be part of the art exhibition “Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala,” to be displayed in The University of Scranton’s Hope Horn Gallery from Friday, Oct. 7, through Friday, Nov. 18.
Maldonado, a native of San Lucas Tolimán, has been taking photos of his village and its people since the time when, as a boy, he found a camera discarded by a visiting tourist in the garbage.
One day, a priest who ran a Roman Catholic Church Mission in the village saw one of his photos and bought it. The priest, Father Gregory Schaffer, then asked him to begin documenting the work of the San Lucas Mission.
“My passion for photography was born and my career as a documentary photographer began” wrote Maldonado on his website.
Maldonado recalls that Father Gregory instructed him to only take images of the people, not the way they live, telling him to always keep intact the dignity of the people he photographed.
It is a lesson Maldonado keeps to this very day, saying the faces of those in the photo tell their story – each wrinkle, the texture of their skin, tells about their lives.
Among the photos to be included in the upcoming exhibition is one of Laso Diaz.
“His eyes mean something different to everyone who sees the photo. Some see happiness, others see curiosity. Some see sadness,” said Maldonado. “I remember that he was just so happy to have his photo taken. His big, bright eyes remain with me to this day. In his eyes, I see a sense of hope.”
Maldonado moved to the U.S. in 2006 and further developed his skill as a photographer.
He returns to San Lucas Tolimán annually. He continues to support the work of the Friends of San Lucas Mission and to keep in touch with those he photographed a decade ago.
Maldonado said that if he were to take a portrait photo of himself it would show two images where his heart lives. One would be of him working with the people of San Lucas Tolimán. The other would be of him with his family. It would document the artist, like his art, preserving the past while looking toward the future.
Maldonado will discuss his exhibition at a public lecture at 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7, in the Pearn Auditorium of Brennan Hall. A gallery reception will immediately follow at the Hope Horn Gallery as part of the City of Scranton’s First Friday events. The exhibition can be seen during gallery hours through Nov. 18. The lecture and exhibition are free of charge and open to the public.
This exhibition is produced through the Hope Horn Gallery in cooperation with the Office of Community Affairs and the Multicultural Center at The University of Scranton. It is part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project, made possible in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. (Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this project do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.) Funding for the show and its related programming has also been provided by a University of Scranton Diversity Initiatives Grant and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.
For additional information, call the Hope Horn Gallery at 570-941-7624, or email Darlene Miller-Lanning, director of the Hope Horn Gallery, at darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
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More than 50 non-profit organizations met with students at The University of Scranton’s annual Volunteer Fair held on campus Sept. 13.
The fair allows students and student-led clubs interested in service projects and community-based learning sites a chance to meet representatives from nonprofit organizations in need of volunteers. Adopt a Boxer Rescue, Arc of NEPA, Big Brother Big Sister, Catholic Social Services, Friends of the Poor, Neighbor Works of NEPA, Taylor Community Library and the Gino Merli Veterans Center were among the participating organizations.
The annual fair is organized by the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice.
$content.getChild('content').textValueStudents Find Volunteer Opportunities at Fair
Graduate student Jessica Hoffmann (Millington, N.J./Watchung Hills) of The University of Scranton Women's Cross Country team captured the individual title at Saturday's Lock Haven Invitational in a field of 285 runners with a personal-best time of 21:15.4, the second-fastest 6K time in Landmark Conference history.
For more on that and the rest of the week that was in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Jessica Hoffmann of Women's Cross Country Shines at Lock Haven Invitational
An event Tuesday, Oct. 4, hosted by the World Languages and Cultures Department will provide answers, and opportunities.
Have you ever wondered what learning another language can do for you and your future? Were you aware that knowledge of a second language can help you obtain a job and increase your salary? Would you like to know which language courses the University of Scranton offers?
Find out at the World Languages and Cultures Open House on Oct. 4 from 4:30 - 6 p.m. At this time faculty, students, and staff from the World Languages and Cultures Department will be available in the Language Learning Center (O’Hara Hall 306) to answer questions and speak with you about the languages, programs, and courses the department has to offer.
Enjoy light refreshments and find out about Spanish, French, Italian, German, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Latin, Greek, Russian, and ASL.
World Languages and Cultures Open House Oct. 4
This is the first in an occasional series spotlighting staff throughout the University community. Suggestions for future articles should be directed to RoyalNews@scranton.edu.
Lori Moran '93, G, '95, Director of the Center for Career Development at The University of Scranton is preparing with her team for The Fall Career Expo that will take place on Friday, Sept. 30 in the Byron from 12-3 p.m.
The event is for students in all years and all majors. Students do not need to register in advance. There are 74 organizations coming in a variety of industries. Dress is smart business casual.
Twenty-nine years prior to planning Career Expos for the University, Moran was earning her undergraduate and graduate degrees as a student from Floral Park, New York.
In 1993 at The University of Scranton she earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in English, and two years later earned a Master of Science in School Counseling. Moran began her career with the University in 2009 at the Center for Service & Social Justice, and in 2016 she joined the team at the Center for Career Development. In her role as Director, Moran manages the day-to-day operations. Today, she explains how the Center assists students, including preparing them for their first job.
"We have an outstanding team, each of whom play an important role, whether working directly with students and alumni, communicating with employers, or gathering data and planning for events," said Moran.
"We host Career Expos and other career events. We really are invested in the success of our students and we love supporting them along their career journeys. We work with our alumni as well…Once a Royal, always a Royal!"
How does the Center assist students?
* career decision-making,
* resume and cover letter writing,
* job and internship search,
* interview preparation including mock interviews,
* graduate school preparation,
* networking, and
* anything related to career development.
Q: How are you an advocate for the use of technology in the career development process?
A: Technology is crucial today. Job and internships are posted on line, applications are submitted electronically, and students have the opportunity to research companies, industries, and career information online.
We utilize a platform called Handshake at Scranton, and I encourage students to use it when doing a job or internship search and to set up appointments with members of the Career team. It’s also where students will be able to view and register for any upcoming career-related events. LinkedIn is an extremely valuable tool for the job and internship search, as well as for networking.
Q: What is a key piece of advice you recommend to students unsure of their career path?
A: It is OK if students are uncertain about their career path. Career Development is just that…development and a process. Not all students have a linear path from the first day of college to graduation and their first job; actually, many don’t know what they want to do right away and others change their path.
I recommend that students engage with their faculty, have conversations with their advisors, and make an appointment to see one of our career coaches. Networking and conducting informational interviews with professionals in industries you are considering is valuable. I can’t emphasize the importance of experiential learning enough-- internships, research with a professor, volunteer work. It is a great way to gain experience in an industry and decide whether you like it or not.
Q: How do you think the university's Jesuit mission has impacted your time on staff?
A. The Jesuit mission and values are central to the work that we do in Career Development. Cura Personalis, providing that individual attention to students, and being respectful of their uniqueness and caring for the whole person, has particularly impacted me and what I do in my work with students and alumni.
Each member of our team works to build relationships, whether with students, faculty and staff, alumni, or employers, and we are mindful of this and thankful for these collaborative relationships. I am blessed to work at an institution where the mission guides the work that we do.
Q: How do your background and experiences strengthen the Center for Career Development?
A: As an undergraduate student, I changed my major and my career goals. When I was in graduate school here at Scranton, I did an internship in what was then called Career Services, and I worked in a graduate-level position in Residence Life. These experiences introduced me to the idea of working in higher education, something I had not considered before. After graduating, I worked at a few other colleges....
Returning to the University was like coming home. I’m doing something I love at a place that I love. My background and education in counseling enables me to take a strengths-based approach with students. All of my experiences have provided insight to make me a better career counselor/coach and to provide leadership to the department. I’m excited for what the year holds!
Get to know...Lori Moran
When she's not at the University of Scranton, Moran loves spending time with family.
New York State of Mind? "My favorite sports team is the NY Islanders, and my all-time favorite musician is Billy Joel.
Binge-worthy picks: "I have a few shows I like, including Ted Lasso and Schitt’s Creek. I most recently watched Peaky Blinders."
MEET THE STAFF: Lori Moran '93, G, '95
Twenty University of Scranton education majors are serving as student teachers during the fall semester at ten local schools in the following nine school districts: Carbondale, Dunmore, Mid Valley, Mountain View, Pittston, Riverside, Scranton, Valley View and Western Wayne.
The following is a list of undergraduate and graduate students who are serving as student teachers and the schools to which they have been assigned during the fall semester.
Khadiga AboBakr of Scranton will teach at Riverside Junior Senior High School;
Blaire Adams of Cedar Grove, New Jersey, will teach at Dunmore Elementary Center;
Kelly Bierals of Mendham, New Jersey, will teach at Valley View Elementary School;
Cassandra Colozza of Old Forge will teach at Mountain View Elementary School;
Jordan Czap of Danbury, Connecticut, will teach at Dunmore Elementary Center;
Karen Degnan of Scotch Plains, New Jersey will teach at Mountain View Elementary School;
Andrea Filachek of Lagrangeville, New York, will teach at Mid Valley Elementary Center;
Abigail Knobler of Norristown will teach at Mid Valley Elementary Center;
Jack Lear of Coatesville will teach at Riverside East Elementary School;
Emily Mac Millan of Clark, New Jersey, will teach at Carbondale Elementary School;
Julia Mancuso of Dunmore will teach at Neil Armstrong Elementary School;
Sophia Marlow of Massapequa, New York, will teach at Carbondale Elementary School;
Kayla Masterson of Old Tappan, New Jersey, will teach at Pittston Intermediate Center;
Sofia Muta of Greenfield Township will teach at Pittston Intermediate Center;
Jennifer Noll of Paoli will teach at Dunmore Elementary Center;
Jessica Notari of Thompson will teach at Evergreen Elementary School;
Danielle Raffa of East Northport, New York, will teach at Valley View Elementary School;
Laura Scanlon of Scranton will teach at Carbondale Elementary School;
Anna Trojan of Airmont, New York, will teach at Dunmore Elementary Center;
Bridget Warren of Westfield, New Jersey, will teach at Riverside East Elementary School.
University Student Teachers Begin at Area Schools
The Office of Community-Based Learning (CBL) announces the creation of the Faculty Fellows in Community-Based Learning Program at The University of Scranton. This program seeks to recognize, reward, and support exemplary faculty who are eager to fully integrate Community-Based Learning as an intentional pedagogical strategy into their courses and/or curricular-based projects. This academic experience involves students working with individuals, groups, or organizations in ways structured to meet community-defined needs. The Faculty Fellows program seeks to expand, strengthen and institutionalize Community-Based Learning at The University of Scranton as a demonstration of our commitment to the common good.
The inaugural cohort of the Community-Based Learning Faculty Fellows for Academic Year 2022-2023 are:
Ovidiu C. Cocieru, Ph.D.
Ovidiu C. Cocieru, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Management, Marketing and Entrepreneurship. His research interests are mainly focused on experiential learning. Dr. Cocieru has co-authored six peer-reviewed journal articles. He earned a doctorate in management from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, a master’s degree in sports management from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Alexandru Ioan Cuza University in Romania. Prior to his academic career, Dr. Cocieru worked as a manager in the event management industry. Dr. Cocieru plans to strengthen his Community-Based Learning engagement in two sections of Management 352 Principles of Management and Entrepreneurship II to support an ongoing collaboration with the Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA during National Child Abuse Awareness Month.
“The Ignatian pedagogical paradigm matches very well the theory of experiential learning that is described in the management education literature. Community-based learning is a wonderful opportunity to create empowering, meaningful, and rewarding learning experiences for our students, in which they grow as people and impact the world.”
Gerard G. Dumancas, Ph.D.
Gerard G. Dumancas, Ph.D., came to the University of Scranton as an Associate Professor of Chemistry and as the Director of the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program in Spring 2022. Since coming to the university, he has published 11 manuscripts in high-impact factor journals and has generated more than $1 million in external funding. He is presently the lead guest editor of "Sustainability," focusing on the applications of machine learning and artificial intelligence in sustainable chemistry. At the university, he teaches Instrumental Analysis lab, General and Analytical Chemistry, and Graduate level Analytical Chemistry. His research area is in chemometrics, environmental chemistry, statistical genetics, bioinformatics, and artificial intelligence as applied to analytical chemistry. Dr. Dumancas’ Community-Based Learning project’s goal is to implement a community-based learning experience in a higher-level chemistry laboratory course in collaboration with the Lackawanna River Conservation Association (LRCA) on analytical chemistry projects.
"This CBL opportunity will allow me to integrate my teaching, research, and service interests that will impact students at the University of Scranton as well as the local community. This CBL initiative will provide an opportunity for my students to develop critical thinking skills, experience the process of scientific discovery and investigation, improve communication skills and scientific literacy, and explore real-life applications of advanced analytical chemistry instrumentation to real-world scenarios."
Brian J. Snee, Ph.D.
Brian J. Snee, Ph.D., is Associate Professor of Communication and Media. He earned a B.A. from The University of Scranton, and a M.A. and Ph.D. from Penn State University. He is the author of "Lincoln Before Lincoln" and the editor of "Michael Moore and the Rhetoric of Documentary". His TEDx Talk is titled, "How the Virtue of Eloquence Became a Vice." Dr. Snee will be matching his COMM 240 Communications Research Methods course with the needs of non-profit organizations.
“Community-Based Learning brings the ‘real world’ into my classrooms by connecting my students with professional clients. Rather than completing homework assignments for a professor, my students are able to work both with and for professionals in communication and media long before graduation. It is, in my opinion, higher education at its most challenging and rewarding.”
Patricia A. Wisniewski, Ed.D., OTR/L
Patricia A. Wisniewski, Ed.D., OTR/L, is a faculty specialist in the Department of Occupational Therapy at The University of Scranton. Over the past 10 years, she has taught an occupational therapy course that has Community-Based Learning as a component/requirement within the course. She earned an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Educational Technology from the University of South Carolina and is a certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Specialist and a CarFit trainer, event coordinator, and technician. Dr. Wisniewski partners with multiple organizations, and during her fellowship will be focusing on building upon an ongoing Community-Based Learning collaboration with the Autism Collaborative Center for Excellence for her OT 575 Community Practice in Occupational Therapy course. Graduate occupational therapy students provide community-based skill development groups for pediatric and/or adolescent/young adults who have autism or other related disabilities.
“Engaging in CBL projects transformed my occupational therapy students' worldviews about existing societal issues that prevent individuals and populations from achieving health and wellness, provided actionable insights for the community partners, and gave the students a new perspective on what navigating spaces may be like for community members with diverse needs. The occupational therapy students learned about the importance of resolving health and social disparities in the community and embraced their moral civic and professional responsibility to promote occupational justice by advocating for occupational rights that respect individuals’ and populations’ dignity, humanity, and inclusion.”
Participation in the Community-Based Learning Faculty Fellow program is open to all full-time tenured or tenure-track faculty members with up to four faculty fellows selected each academic year. The selection of faculty fellows is based on the merit of the Community-Based Learning component of the proposed course or project, the service/scholarly/teaching credentials and/or promise of the faculty member, the ability of the faculty member to contribute to strengthening the university’s Community-Based Learning initiative, the degree to which the faculty member will benefit from the fellowship, and the extent to which it benefits the external community.
Community-Based Learning Faculty Fellows commit to attending a series of monthly meetings and presenting on their course/project. The fellowship offers faculty an opportunity to modify an existing course, design a new course, or creae a curricular-based/discipline-oriented project with a Community-Based Learning component. Over the course of the year, faculty fellows have opportunities to build strong relationships with their community partner organizations, engage in scholarship on Community-Based Learning, present on their experiences, and serve as Community-Based Learning mentors to other faculty members.
Applications will be available again in winter 2023 for the 2023-2024 academic year. For more information on the Office of Community-Based Learning and the Community-Based Learning Faculty Fellows program, please visit www.scranton.edu/CBL or email Community-Based Learning Faculty Coordinator, Dr. Debra Fetherman at debra.fetherman@scranton.edu.
Inaugural Community-Based Learning Faculty Fellows Announced
UPDATE: Due to weather, the kickoff event will be held in the Heritage Room, Library 5th floor, on Thursday, Oct. 13 at 4:30 p.m.
The University will begin a yearlong celebration of women being accepted into undergraduate education.
The celebration will start with a brief program. A few remarks will be offered by Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., interim provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, among others. The Gateway will be lit with celebratory colors.
A hot chocolate, cider and doughnut social will follow.
The first 100 students to arrive will receive a free, commemorative T-shirt.
Faculty, staff, administrators and students who are organizing this milestone celebration for the University community comprise the 50th Anniversary of Coeducation Workgroup.
50th Anniversary Celebration of Coeducation Begins
Forbes ranked The University of Scranton among “America’s Top Colleges” for the 14th year. Scranton is the only college in Northeast Pennsylvania to be named among the just 498 elite colleges in the nation listed in the 2022 ranking, which was published online last month. Scranton, ranked No. 414, was among just 33 colleges in Pennsylvania that Forbes selected as “America’s Top Colleges.”
The ranking by Forbes analyzed “outputs” of a college education, weighting alumni salaries at one to six years and 10 years after enrollment and after graduation the most, representing 20 percent of the overall score. The methodology used by Forbes also looked at graduation rates (15 percent), student debt (15 percent) and the number of alumni making the Forbes “American Leaders” lists (15 percent), such as its “Forbes 400” and “Richest Self-Made Women” lists, as well as alumni who won national and international awards or positions, such as winners of the Nobel Prize. Forbes also rated retention rate (10 percent), academic success (10 percent), as measured by alumni winning prestigious academic scholarships, such as Fulbright and Truman scholarships, and a “return on investment” measurement (15 percent), which calculates the time it takes for students to pay their college debt based on the “post-enrollment earnings boost students get compared their typical salary of a high school graduate in their state.”
In other national rankings, U.S. News & World Report ranked Scranton No. 5 among regional universities in the north in its 2023 guidebook. This is the 29th consecutive year that Scranton ranked in the top 10. The Princeton Review included Scranton in its list of “Best Colleges” for 21 consecutive years, and ranked the University No. 7 in the nation for “Best Science Lab Facilities” in the 2023 edition of the guidebook.
Forbes Names Scranton Among Top Colleges in USA
The University of Scranton recently hosted a Pennsylvania Cable Network (PCN) “On the Road” College Election Roundtable to discuss the highly contested Pennsylvania Governor and U.S. Senate races. Panelists for the event, co-sponsored by the University of Scranton’s Political Science Department, were JoyAnna Hopper, Ph.D., director of The University of Scranton’s Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service; Jeff Brauer, professor of social and behavioral sciences at Keystone College and University of Scranton alumnus; and Borys Krawczeniuk, investigative reporter for the Scranton Times-Tribune. Francine Schertzer, senior vice president and chief content officer for PCN, moderated the discussion.
Several questions posed to the panel sought to determine what salient issues will likely motivate citizens to vote, and how specific candidate attributes will affect the election outcomes.
Prof. Brauer highlighted the struggling economy as an important factor that will drive people to vote. Dr. Hopper agreed, but expanded, noting that some polls find the issue of abortion, a topic of intense conversation since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade with the Dobbs v. Jackson decision in June 2022, to be of larger importance to voters than the economy and inflation. She also referenced Kansas voters’ rejection of a referendum that would have restricted abortion rights as evidence that this issue may bring more women and independents to the polls in favor of Democrats.
Other questions examined if the panel expected the Pennsylvania midterms to defy typical midterm election expectations. For example, after successful primaries, candidates usually shift their rhetoric more to the center of the political spectrum to attract more voters. The party opposite of the president also tends to win more seats in midterm elections. Krawczeniuk responded, explaining that Fetterman, Oz (candidates for the U.S. Senate), and Shapiro (Democratic candidate for Pennsylvania Governor) have all moved their positions closer to the middle, but Doug Mastriano, the Republican candidate for Governor, has not. Dr. Hopper attributed this to a recent trend in which candidates are being “rewarded for being on the extremes.” Krawczeniuk also pointed out that although early data pointed to voters favoring Republican candidates, the Democratic candidates have since taken the lead in the polls. However, Krawczeniuk expects the polls to tighten as they usually do after Labor Day.
Dr. Hopper said that the relevance and influence of a former president (Donald Trump) this long after the conclusion of their term is not typical, but will likely have an effect on the midterm results. Prof. Brauer noted that although midterm elections typically act as a referendum on the president’s party, this election still seems to focus on, in a way, the choice between two presidential candidates – a notion exemplified recently as both President Biden and former President Trump visited Northeast Pennsylvania. Dr. Hopper underscores that the state garners so much attention because “Pennsylvania, I think, it is really truly split.”
The panelists also fielded questions about the importance of debates, social media and endorsements and discussed each of the candidates more specifically.
The panelists concluded the event with advice on how to identify legitimate polls, highlighting the importance of poll timing, poll sample-size, the poll’s margin of error, the poll’s potential partisan leaning and the importance of referencing several different sources. The panelists also noted that polls tend to become more accurate the closer to the election.
The panel discussion can be viewed on PCN’s website.
University Hosts PA Cable Network Election Roundtable
The event date and location have changed to Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022, in Leahy Room 235.
A Campus Coffeehouse for the exhibition "Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Toliman, Guatemala. Photographs by Byron Maldonado," will be held on Thursday, Oct. 20, in the Rose Room, Room 509, Brennan Hall, from 7 to 8 p.m. The artist will lead a conversation about his work photographing the indigenous community in San Lucas, and about the San Lucas Mission.
Produced in conjunction with the Multicultural Center, this show is supported in part by a University of Scranton Diversity Initiatives Grant. Please contact Darlene Miller-Lanning at darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu or 570-941-4214 for further information.
Campus Coffeehouse celebrates Mayan Narratives Exhibition
The University of Scranton’s Asian Studies Program will host two events that examine transnational migration in Taiwan and its cultural impact on the country’s literature and cinema.
Hsin-Chin Evelyn Hsieh, Ph.D., will present “Bringing the World to Taiwan: Border Crossing and Transnational Cultural Flow in Contemporary Taiwan” at a public lecture on Wednesday, Oct. 5, in the Pearn Auditorium of Brennan Hall. The event begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m. and the lecture beginning at 6 p.m.
A screening of the award-winning film “The Good Daughter” and Q and A with the director Yu-Ying (Sally) Wu will be held on Thursday, Oct. 6, in the Pearn Auditorium of Brennan Hall. The event also begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m., and the film presentation beginning at 6 p.m. immediately followed by a Q and A with the film’s director.
Both events are free of charge and open to the public.
Dr. Hsieh is an associate professor of the Graduate Institute of Taiwan Literature at National Taiwan University. She formerly taught at Wesleyan University and was a visiting scholar at University of Tubingen, Germany. At the Oct. 5 lecture, she will discuss how Southeast Asian migrants and their experiences have reshaped the cultural landscape of Taiwan. Dr. Hsieh’s research interests include contemporary Taiwan literature, film and documentary and migration studies, particularly related to the contemporary cultural production and the inbound and outbound migration of Taiwan.
Director Wu has collaborated with David Sutherland on his FRONTLINE series and other films that aired on PBS. Her debut feature documentary, “The Good Daughter,” won Best Documentary and Best Editing at the 2020 Taipei Film Festival. The film looks at the complicated marriage of a disabled Taiwanese man and his Vietnamese wife, portraying her struggle to balance her family obligation to support her relatives in Vietnam with her duties as a mother and wife to her impoverished family in Taiwan.
The lecture and film screening and Q and A are sponsored by the University’s Asian Studies Program and its College of Arts and Sciences, and the Taipei Cultural Center in New York of the Taiwan Ministry of Culture.
For more information or questions about the events, contact Ann A. Pang-White, Ph.D., director of Asian Studies and professor of philosophy at the University, at ann.pang-white@scranton.edu or 570-941-7643
Events Examine Transnational Migration in Taiwan
The University of Scranton President’s Business Council (PBC) will host its first in-person President’s Business Council (PBC) Award Dinner since 2019. The PBC 21st Annual Award Dinner will take place at Gotham Hall in New York City on Thursday, Sept. 29, and will honor this year’s recipients of the President’s Medal: Patti Byrnes Clarke ’86, P’17,’19, global chief talent officer, Havas Group; and Tom O’Brien ’86, P’19, senior managing director, SumRidge Partners, a Raymond James company. Proceeds from the dinner go directly to the Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund.
During her time at the Havas Group, which is one of the world’s largest global communications groups and part of the Vivendi Group, Byrnes Clarke has built a talent management approach that includes initiatives on network mobility, high-potential leadership development, women’s leadership advancement, global employee engagement, employer branding, global diversity, equity and inclusion and wellness. As the global chief talent officer, she is responsible for leading the talent and cultural strategy for the group’s 20,000 plus employees in more than 100 countries.
Byrnes Clarke earned her bachelor’s degree in management from the University in 1986. She is a former member of the University’s Board of Trustees and a former member of the Kania School of Management Advisory Board and the University’s Parents’ Executive Council (PEC). She is also a former chair of the PBC and created the PBC/Kania School of Management Career Coaches Program, in which she remains a mentor to current University students. She and her husband, David, reside in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, and have five children.
Prior to the acquisition of SumRidge Partners, LLC, by Raymond James in July 2022, O’Brien was a co-founder, chief executive officer and president of SumRidge Partners, L.LC., which formed in 2010. SumRidge Partners is a top-ranked electronic fixed income market maker specializing in high-yield, investment-grade corporate bonds, municipal bonds, institutional preferred securities, and emerging market bonds. Prior to launching SumRidge Partners, O’Brien was co-head of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney’s Capital Markets division and was also a member of the firm’s management and risk committees.
O’Brien earned his bachelor’s degree of economics/finance from the University in 1986 and a master of business administration from Fordham University. He is a former member of the University’s Board of Trustees, where he served as vice chair, and was a former chair of the PBC. Today, he acts as a mentor to current University students and frequently teaches in the fixed income securities and markets course, which he co-developed with the late Frank Corcione, Ph.D., and Murli Rajan, Ph.D., G’84. He resides in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, with his wife, Denise, and their three sons.
Byrnes Clarke and O’Brien will be honored with the President’s Medal not only for their career successes, but also for their commitment to the University’s mission and its students.
The PBC was formed in 2001 by the University and a prominent group of alumni and friends with the purpose of advancing the mission of the University. The PBC is committed to strengthening the Scranton network in the business sectors and to providing mentoring, internships and career support for current students and meaningful engagement opportunities for alumni, parents and friends. At the PBC’s Annual Award Dinner, an honoree is presented with the University’s President’s Medal, which recognizes individuals who have achieved excellence in their fields and who have demonstrated extraordinary compassion for others. Proceeds from the dinner go directly to the Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund. Presidential Scholarships are four-year, full-tuition scholarships awarded to the University’s incoming first-year students with outstanding records in high school and notable community involvement.
Additional details regarding this year’s dinner, including the live stream link, are available on the PBC Award Dinner webpage or by contacting Tim Pryle ’89, executive director of the PBC, at 570-941-5837 or pbc@scranton.edu.
Annual PBC Celebration Returns to NYC Sept. 29
The exhibition "Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Toliman, Guatemala. Photographs by Byron Maldonado," will be presented at Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall, 4th Floor, between Oct. 7 and Nov.18. A native of San Lucas Toliman, Maldonado worked as a photographer for Fr. Gregory Schaffer, founder of the town’s San Lucas Mission. Over the years, he has developed a series of images representing the indigenous community there.
University of Scranton students visit San Lucas Toliman on International Service Program trips to the San Lucas Mission. Produced in conjunction with the Multicultural Center, this show is supported in part by a University of Scranton Diversity Initiatives Grant. Gallery hours are Sunday-Friday, 12 to 4 p.m., and Wednesday evenings 6-8 p.m.
Please contact Darlene Miller-Lanning at darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu or 570-941-4214 for further information.
'Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Toliman, Guatemala. Photographs by Byron Maldonado' at Hope Horn Gallery beginning Oct. 7
The Office of Human Resources is pleased to announce the continuation of the learning series, For Your Benefit, with sessions geared toward resources, planning and guidance on topics including our various employee benefit plans and life issues such as telemedicine, benefit overview, tuition remission, and more.
Session 2: Oct. 20, 2:30 - 4 p.m. TDC405
Participants in the University's health plan have free and easy access to physicians 24x7. SwiftMD is often the first call they make at the onset of an il lness or injury to save themselves time and money. If it can be treated by a routine office visit or a trip to an Urgent Care Center, SwiftMD offers a convenient, high-quality healthcare alternative. A representative from SWIFT MD, Ross McNeil, will present information about this valuable benefit and how to access care.
Session 3: Nov. 17, 2:30 - 4 p.m. TDC405
The University of Scranton fosters a spirit of caring – grounded in Jesuit tradition of cura personalis by providing an outstanding benefits package to its employees. Our comprehensive benefits and resources are designed to promote and sustain the health and wellness of employees and their families, and to help employees invest wisely in their future.
Session 1, hosted Sept. 22, discussed “Using your Tuition Benefit.” Employees can pursue an undergraduate degree, learn for their own enrichment, or pursue a graduate degree.This workshop, was presented by BethAnn McCartney, Benefits Manager; Jonathan Kirby, Assistant Director of Financial Aid; and Caitlyn M. Hollingshead, Director of Graduate & International Admin., Graduate Admissions and Recruitment.
Learn more about the University benefit package
Our benefits package includes:
-Health care plan choices that include medical, dental and vision
-A University supported retirement savings plan
-Tuition remission and tuition excha nge plans for employees and their families
-Short and long term disability programs
-Life Insurance
-Paid time off
-An employee assistance program
-Mission and Community Service Leave
-Alternative work schedule program
Join BethAnn McCartney, Benefits Manager and Eileen Notarianni, Benefits Specialist, for an overview of the University’s benefit package and important steps to access each benefit.
HR Benefit Sessions Continue Oct. 20, Nov. 17
The University of Scranton field hockey team remains unbeaten at 4-0 on the young season, while the men's and women's soccer teams both sit at 4-1-1 on the year.
For more on those teams and the rest of the week that was in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Men's and Women's Soccer, Field Hockey Teams Off to Hot Starts
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, announced Robert W. Davis Jr., Ed.D., has been named vice president for University advancement, effective Sept. 19, 2022. Dr. Davis previously served as the vice president for student life at Scranton. In his new position, he will continue responsibility for Athletics and for managing the University’s food service and bookstore partnerships. He will also continue to serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet.
“I know, from my own experience of working closely with Bobby over the last year that he is a senior leader who grounds his service in a genuine devotion to our mission,” said Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., in the campus announcement about Dr. Davis’s new position. Father Marina added that, as vice president for student life, Dr. Davis “provided dedicated and visionary leadership for the division, championing students and the student experience at every turn. I am particularly grateful for the exceptional work that he and his team accomplished throughout the pandemic.”
A graduate of The University of Scranton, Dr. Davis joined the staff at Scranton in 2006 and has served in several capacities, including as area coordinator and assistant director for housing operations in the Office of Residence Life; director of the University’s historic Pride, Passion, Promise Campaign, which was the largest capital campaign in the University’s history, raising more than $129 million to support the University’s mission, endowment and development. He also served as interim vice president for development and alumni relations and as chief of staff in the President’s Office at Scranton, prior to his tenure as vice president for student life.
He currently serves on the Board of Trustees at Scranton Preparatory School.
Dr. Davis earned his bachelor’s, master’s and MBA degrees from The University of Scranton and his doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania.
Vice President for University Advancement Named
More than 225 University of Scranton fans of "The Office" who attended the Sept.15 exclusive Q and A session on campus with actor and best-seling author Brian Baumgartner learned about how he assembled recipes for his latest book, “Seriously Good Chili Cookbook.” They also walked away with more than a few insights about the actor, and his fictional counterpart on The Office, Kevin Malone, including his:
1. favorite guest star on "The Office": Kathy Bates,
2. most memorable talking-head scene: "You can't eat cats. You can't eat cats, Kevin,"
3. scene takes needed to capture his character's meme-making chili-spill scene: Only one!
These trivia tidbits were discovered when event moderator and University Director of the Center for Student Engagement Michael Ritterbeck peppered Baumgartner with rapid-fire questions that were crowdsourced from students in advance of the event. They were unable to convince him to share the identity of the Emmy-award winning sitcom's Scranton Strangler: "No one knows and no one cares," joked Baumgartner about the C-plot that surfaced several times in the course of the series' nine seasons on NBC.
The visit was part of a tour in support of his first cookbook, which published on Sept. 13. Baumgartner was on campus in November 2021 for a student Q and A and book signing for “Welcome to Dunder Mifflin: The Ultimate Oral History of The Office,” which became a New York Times best-seller.
What type of chili does Brian Baumgartner prefer?
"Smoked chicken with white beans was my favorite," said Baumgartner, of chili entries he sampled in 2021 as judge of a World Championship Chili Cook Off event hosted in Myrtle Beach. It was there he began assembling the recipes for his latest book.
In real life, he has become “a true chili master and aficionado,” who is “just as serious as his fictional counterpart about making the most perfect pot of chili.” His first cookbook features 177 chili recipes hand-picked by Baumgartner. Written in a humorous and friendly tone, the book showcases specific styles of chili, including Texas chili, Cincinnati chili, vegetarian chili, black bean chili and home-style chili, as well as other regional and international variations, and a bonus recipe of the official “Kevin’s Famous Chili” recipe from The Office.
Baumgartner reflected on the ubiquitous scene where his character fumbles while delivering a stockpot of chili painstakingly prepared for his co-workers, and said he never expected it to be his most famous show moment.
He joked: "Is it a piece given to the world by a genius of physical comedy?...Yes," Baumgartner said.
Over the course of the show's nine-season run, and still today, he receives requests fan feedback.
"Here's why I think it resonates...To me, it kind of captures the real essence of what The Office was, which is a celebration of ordinary people doing ordinary things, finding the beauty in that."
What he carries with him is this:
"The greatest gift is the interactions with people who tell me The Office has brough them comfort at certain times."
He referenced a recent interview with Grammy winner Billie Eilish on his podcast, Off The Beat with Brian Baumgartner who as a superfan said she keeps the show on in the background and envisions all the scenes.
For more about “Seriously Good Chili Cookbook,”published by Fox Chapel, visit here: https://www.seriouslygoodchilicookbook.com/
Q and A moderator and University Director of the Center for Student Engagement Michael Ritterbeck, shown above, shares a photo from a 2017 event he attended as a University of Scranton student. At "The Office Convention," Ritterbeck met the cast and was featured with them on the front page of The Times-Tribune.
Brian Baumgartner shares chili recipes and stories with students
The University of Scranton Department of Athletics is now until Oct. 10 accepting nominations for the Wall of Fame Class of 2023. The Class of 2023 will be inducted during a ceremony this spring on a date to be announced.
The University's Wall of Fame was founded in 1970 to honor former student-athletes, coaches, and administrators, as well as members of the local community, who have been instrumental in the development and success of the University's athletics programs.
For a former student-athlete to be eligible, at least 10 years must have passed since his or her class graduated from the University. Former student-athletes whose class graduated in 2013 or earlier are eligible for the Class of 2023.
Click here to nominate an individual for The University's Wall of Fame Class of 2023.
University of Scranton Wall of Fame Nominations Open Until Oct. 10
The University will host Family Weekend 2022, a celebration for current students and their families, Sept. 24 and 25.
The annual event gives families a firsthand look into the lives of their students, and the Family Weekend Planning Committee has once again assembled a fantastic array of Scrantastic activities that will foster fun and fellowship.
"Family Weekend gives parents the opportunity to reconnect with their students and explore all that Scranton has to offer on and off campus. Our campus will showcase athletic events, a student fundraiser basket raffle, a free Family Weekend Concert, the Master Gardeners group beautifying our campus, fun and games with USPB After Dark, and a beautiful Family Weekend Mass. Both on and off campus, there is something for everyone in your family!" said Assistant VP, Annual Giving & Engagement Frani Mancuso.
"Food Trucks were a big hit last year and offer a great variety of offerings. It's hard to pick a favorite...but the Mannings ice cream line is pretty long." she added.
Speaking of favorites, Assistant Director, Center for Student Engagement Casey Steiner said:
"We are bringing back all of the fan favorites from years past! The stuff-a-pillow this year will be white or purple square pillow with the Scranton 'S' on it. We have a limited quantity, so families should be sure to grab a ticket when they arrive at the event to receive one. Bingo will have some big prizes, including an air fryer, a camera, gift cards, and Air pods, to name a few. Families can also pop by the photo booth to have something to remember their evening. We look forward to seeing everyone!"
Student Group Performances will take place on Founder's Green Satruday, Sept. 24, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. with a rain location at The Moscovitz Theater, 4th Floor of The DeNaples Center.
"Student performances are always a highlight of the weekend. Our student club and organizations start gearing up at the start of the semester preparing to offer a snapshot of their talent. Along with our student club performances, don't miss the University of Scranton Concert Choir as they perform Saturday night with Joseph Boga and the Scranton Ramblers," said Mancuso.
For more on Joseph Boga and the Scranton Ramblers, read the full story here.
Get all the details below and at this link: https://www.scranton.edu/parent-relations/family-weekend/schedule.shtml
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022
9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Family Weekend Hospitality Center
A warm welcome awaits you at the Family Weekend Hospitality Center. Staff will be on hand to answer questions about the weekend and offer suggestions about the surrounding area.
The DeNaples Center, 1st Floor
Basket Raffle - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (and Friday 9/23 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.)
This annual raffle serves to support our students with their experiential travel and and service events
Sponsored by The Center for Service and Social Justice
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Women's Rugby vs. ESU - 11:00 a.m.
Men's Rugby vs. Bucknell - 1:00 p.m.
Fitzpatrick Field
1:00 p.m. Saturday Women's Volleyball vs. Rowan 1:00 p.m.; vs. Messiah 5:00 p.m.
John Long Center (*Friday 9/23 vs. Franklin & Marshall 3:00 p.m.; Friday 9/23 vs. RIT 7:00 p.m.)
1:00 p.m. Women's Field Hockey vs. Catholic
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Food Truck Fare
Area food trucks will be parked along Linden Street for this lunch-on-your-own experience:
2Wayz One Passion Food Truck
Bella Rose Food Truck & Catering LLC
FonDippity
Manning's Mobile Ice Cream Shoppe
Big D's Curbside Crave
(Food trucks subject to change)
Commons Flag Terrace
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Student Group Performances
Scrantones (Men/Women for Octives)
Royal Harmony (Men/Women for Octives)
Liva Arts (Musical Theater)
Royal Expressions (Contemporary Dance)
Urban Beats
University of Scranton Cheer Team
University of Scranton Dance Team
Founder's Green (*Rain Location - The Moscovitz Theater, 4th Floor of The DeNaples Center)
12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Penn State Master Gardeners
The University of Scranton is fortunate to have The Penn State Master Gardeners on campus, conducting a pruning project of our Conifer plants around The Estate, and the Christmas tree on The Dionne Green. The Penn State Master Gardeners assist Cooperative Extension to provide horticultural knowledge and skills to local communities and the gardening public. Through their local outreach, Penn State Master Gardeners educate both youth and adults in communities throughout Pennsylvania.
12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library Book Sale
The Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library at the University of Scranton are sponsoring a book sale, including used non-fiction and fiction hardcover and paperback books. The event takes place outside on the Monroe Avenue side of the Weinberg Memorial Library or inside the building in case of rain, with all proceeds benefiting The Weinberg Memorial Library Endowment.
Weinberg Memorial Library
4:00 p.m.
Family Weekend Mass
Join our community at Mass as we celebrate Scranton families coming together in fellowship. Families of all religious affiliations are warmly welcome.
The William J. Byron, S.J. Recreation Complex
7:30 p.m.
Family Weekend Concert
Joseph Boga and the Scranton Ramblers with an appearance by The University of Scranton Concert Choir
Houlihan-McLean Center - More Information
8:30 p.m.
USPB After Dark: Family Weekend Edition
Join the University of Scranton Programming Board (USPB) as they transform the DeNaples Center into a family entertainment complex! Featuring multiple attractions, including a live, interactive game show, Scranton bingo, photo booths, and more, this is an exciting family event that is not to be missed. Sponsored by the USPB.
The DeNaples Center
Sunday, September 25, 2022
9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Brunch on Your Own
You will have the option to pay at the door or use your student's flex spending account. The cost of brunch is $10.52 per person.
The DeNaples Center, Fresh Food Company, 3rd Floor
Noon - 4:00 p.m.
Hope Horn Art Gallery - "Time and Lace" - A history of The Scranton Lace Company
For over a century, the Scranton Lace Company was recognized for its quality products, innovative management, and skilled workforce. Guest curated by University of Scranton graduate Roman Golebiowski, this show and catalog celebrate its history as represented in artifacts from the Lackawanna Historical Society and Anthracite Heritage Museum in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Gallery Hours: Sunday through Friday 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. Wednesday 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
University to host Family Weekend Sept. 24-25
Meet the Fulbright Teaching Assistants and visiting instructor from the World Languages and Cultures Department. They are sharing knowledge of their native languages and cultures with the community. Read below to find out more, including their teaching assistant hours.
P. Magalí Ferrer, ArgentinA (Spanish)
“Hola! My name is P. Magalí Ferrer and I am the Argentinian Fulbright Teaching Assistant for the academic year of 2022/23. Therefore, I will be teaching Spanish. I am from San Rafael, Mendoza, a city located in the western central part of Argentina. It is home to the highest mountain in America (Mount Aconcagua) and it is also the center of the Argentinian wine industry, which is recognized worldwide. I earned a BA in the teaching of English as a Foreign Language and I am currently working on a Specialization in the Teaching of Spanish as a Foreign Language, as well as on a postgraduate degree in TEFL. Apart from teaching, I absolutely love meeting new people and learning about their languages and cultures. Besides, I enjoy hanging out with friends, walking, getting to know new places, among other things. Finally, I am really excited about being part of the Scranton community, and I hope to meet many of you while I am here!”
Professor Ferrer will be teaching Spanish, and her teaching assistant hours are on Thursdays from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Celine Victoria Seeger, Germany (German)
“Hallo! My name is Celine Victoria Seeger and I will be this year’s German Fulbright FLTA. This fall, I will be teaching the beginner and elementary German courses. I am from the south of Germany and am currently pursuing my Master’s program at University of Scranton in Education with English and history as my majors. I am a big fan of literature and spend a good deal of my free time reading; but I am also a lover of the outdoors and love hiking and running. I am originally from the northern Black Forest, so in summer I go for a couple of hikes there, it’s the most beautiful place! Furthermore, I like traveling and getting to know new cultures a lot and lived in Australia for half a year and taught German at a community school in the southeast of Ireland. I am very much looking forward to getting to know you, taking some classes in American history here in Scranton and sharing my language and culture with you! If you have any questions about me or my German language courses, please reach out and do not hesitate to contact me!”
Professor Seeger will be teaching German and her teaching assistant hours are on Thursdays from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30.p.m.
Badoor Albuloushi, Kuwait (Arabic)
“My name is Badoor Albuloushi. I’ll be teaching Arabic this year. I was born in Kuwait. I studied teaching English as a second language at Kuwait University. I have my master’s and Ph.D. in Special Education, Gifted Education at Arabian Gulf University in Bahrain. I am the head of the English department at Al Rajaa School for Girls, Special Education. I taught English as a second language to primary school, middle school, high school up to university level. I also taught American sign language to Arabic deaf and hard of hearing students for four years. In my free time I love to paint in my art studio, visit the art gallery, or hang out with friends. I love teaching and I enjoy it. I am really excited to teach Arabic this year.”
Dr. Albuloushi will be teaching Arabic and her teaching assistant hours are on Fridays from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Audrey LeCerf - France (French)
“Bonjour tout le monde! My name is Audrey, and I am the French Fulbright Teaching Assistant for the academic year 2022-2023. I come from the North of France near the city of Lille, and have always lived there. I studied foreign languages – namely English and Mandarin, business, and political science. I love traveling and meeting people from all around the world. I went on a student exchange to Taiwan before for a semester and loved it, so I am really looking forward to spending this year in Scranton and to discovering more about American culture! I love discovering new languages as I find it so rewarding, and I hope I can help you all feel that rewarding feeling with the French language. Hoping to meet you soon!”
Professor LeCerf will be teaching French and her teaching assistant hours are on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Chiang Yun, Taiwan (Chinese)
“大家好!My name is Chiang Yun. You can just call me Yun, or my English name, Lily. I was born in Taipei, Taiwan. You may not know where Taiwan is. Taiwan is a little island between China and Japan. Taiwan is a multicultural island. Taipei is the capital of Taiwan, with a lot of delicious food and motorcycles. Have you tried bubble tea and hot pot? Try it and you will love it! I graduated from Zhong Yuan University with a bachelor’s degree in teaching Chinese as second language. After graduation, I taught at an international Chinese school in Korea for six years, so I can speak Korean and I also like watching Korean dramas. While I was working, I went to the National Taiwan Normal University to gain my master’s degree in teaching Chinese as second language. It was hard work, but worth it. I like Chinese since it’s a beautiful language with a lot of culture and history. I also like to experience different cultures. I am honored to teach in Scranton. I wish to bring my knowledge to the students because I believe (教学相长) students can learn from me and I can learn from them too.”
Professor Chiang is a visiting instructor and will be teaching Mandarin here at the University.
Fulbright Teaching Assistants, Visiting Instructor Share Cultures
Employees, faculty and students are invited Wednesday, Sept. 21, for a special event as part of Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story project, “A Shop on Every Corner: Memories of the Garment Industry Film Screening & Discussion” with historian Dr. Ken Wolensky and filmmaker Maureen McGuigan. The event will take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Ritz Theater & Performing Arts Center, Scranton, Pennsylvania.
RSVP here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Garment2022.
For more information, visit www.scranton.edu/scrantonstory
Women and Scranton Garment Industry Film, Discussion Sept. 21
Campus Flu Shot Clinic for Staff & Faculty
(September 30, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.) -- Click Here to Register.
Did you know that the CDC recommends getting a flu shot annually before the end of October?
The flu shot is the best defense against the flu. University employees can register for CHEW’s Flu Shot & Blood Pressure Clinic on Friday, Sept. 30 from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Employees with University of Scranton health insurance can get a no-cost flu shot. High-dose flu shots are available for those 65 years and older. A blood pressure check by a student nurse earns employees a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card.
Registration is required. To register, click here.
Employees must select a time slot and bring a copy of their University health insurance card to verify eligibility for a no-cost vaccine.
Weekly Wellness Classes Open to students, Staff and Faculty
Drop-in classes are taught by professional instructors to promote stress relief and increase strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. Classes are open to students, staff and faculty. Fall schedule includes:
Light weights and abs*, Monday and Wednesday, 5 p.m., Royals Room, Byron Gym *staff and faculty-only class
Mindfulness meditation, Monday, 5 p.m., Library Room 305
POUND, Tuesday, 5 p.m., Royals Room, Byron Gym
Lunchtime yoga flow, Wednesday 12:15 p.m., Royals Room, Byron Gym
Drop-in pickleball*- Thursdays 12-1 p.m., Byron Gym *staff and faculty-only class
Energizing yoga- Thursdays 5 p.m., Royals Room, Byron Gym
Employee Wellness is thrilled to announce Drop-in pickleball on the fall schedule. In collaboration with Rec Sports, drop-in pickleball for staff and faculty will be held on Thursdays from 12 - 1 p.m. in the Byron Gym courts. No experience is necessary, all skill levels are welcome. Email chew@scranton.edu if interested in being added to the pickleball email list.
Scales Available for Weigh-In Wednesdays
Weighing yourself regularly can be a powerful tool in helping to reach health goals and increase accountability. Weigh-in every Wednesday (or any other day of the week) at one of CHEW's four scales located around campus and as a source of motivation. Don't worry, no need to share the number on the scale with anyone but yourself. Just show up and hop on the scale!
Scale Locations:
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The DeNaples Center, CHEW 205 K
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Alumni Memorial Hall, 1st floor lobby
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O'Hara Hall, 1st floor lobby by vending machines
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The Byron Center, The Rec Sports Office.
Learn more at: www.scranton.edu/chew and follow on Instagram @uofschew
Flu shot clinic Sept. 30 for staff and faculty
Catholic Music Missionary, John Angotti, will visit Scranton from Sept. 30 through Oct. 2 for a series of events involving student liturgical musicians organized through Campus Ministries at the University. The students will have the opportunity to participate in a retreat weekend with Angotti which will include masterclasses, worship, reflection, celebration of the Eucharist, and a concert at the Church of St. Gregory in Clarks Green.
John Angotti in Concert, featuring University of Scranton music ministers, will take place Saturday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. at the Church of St. Gregory, 330 N. Abington Road, Clarks Green, Pennsylvania. All are welcome to attend. A free-will offering will be accepted.
The next day, Oct. 2, Angotti, along with University students, will lead the music at the 11 a.m. Mass in Madonna della Strada Chapel at the University of Scranton. All are welcome.
Since his teen years, Angotti has been writing Christian music. He is a graduate of West Virginia University with a degree in marketing; a graduate of the Naval School of Music, where he majored in voice and minored in piano; and a graduate of Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, from which he holds a Master of Arts in pastoral studies. He has composed countless original songs for worship through World Library and GIA publications.
Angotti spreads the Gospel message through word and song, taking a special interest in reaching today's youth and stressing the importance of finding God in the everyday experiences. He is the Director of Music and Liturgy at St. Philip Catholic Church in Franklin, Tennessee, as well as a full-time music missionary, spreading the message of Jesus throughout the country at conferences, parishes and schools. Conferences include: National Catholic Youth Conference, National Conference for Youth Ministers, National Pastoral Musicians Conference, Los Angeles Religious Education Conference, The East Coast Religious Education Conference, The NCCA Conference, The Hofinger Religious Education Conference in New Orleans, and the NCEA.
For more information, please call 570.941.7589 or email: michael.omalley3@scranton.edu. More information about John Angotti's music is available at johnangotti.com.
Catholic Music Artist, John Angotti, to Visit Campus in October
Employees are invited to learn more about University policies overseen by the Office of Equity and Diversity.
The following policies will be discussed:
- Requests for Accommodations for disability, pregnancy and religious reasons.
- Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy, including violations as defined in the policy, and information on your role as a responsible reporter of sexual misconduct, and the policy complaint procedures.
- Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy, including the protected classes as defined by the University policy, and the related complaint process.
- Sept. 29, 11 a.m. -12 p.m., Brennan Hall 228
- Oct.13, 10 -11 a.m, Join Zoom
- Oct. 26, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Brennan Hall 228
OED Policy Information Sessions Begin For Fall 2022
The Office of the Provost, the Faculty Development Subcommittee of the Council for Diversity and Inclusion, and the Office of Equity and Diversity invite all faculty to the inaugural faculty development day, to take place Friday, Sep. 23. 2022 in Brennan Hall.
Registration is required for the keynote luncheon. R.S.V.P. here.
All faculty are invited to participate in any or all workshops during the all-day event.
The schedule of events is as follows:
9:30-9:50 a.m. - Sign-In, Location: Brennan Hall 5th floor lobby
9:50 a.m. – Welcome: Dr. Michelle Maldonado, Location:The Rose Room, 509
10:00 - 10:50 a.m.
- PILLAR Program
Presenters: Ayana McCalla, Dr. Madeline Gangnes, Dr. Amelia Randich, Dr. Billie Tadros, Elisa Westhafter, and Jennifer Whittaker, MS, OTR/L, CHE, Location: Casey Conference Rm, 502
- “Isms”
Presenter: Dr. Paul Datti, Location: The PNC Board Room, 500
- Student Mental Health Awareness: Recognition and Response
Presenters: Dr. Robert Liskowicz and Lauren Rivera, J.D, M.Ed., Location: The Rose Room, 509
11:00 - 11:50a.m.
- Building DEI Partnerships for Student Leaning Inside and Outside the Classroom
Presenters: Dr. Ovidiu Cocieru, Dr. Roxana Curiel, Dr. Ann Pang-White, and José Sanchez, Location:The Rose Room, 509
- Navigating DEI in the Classroom: Faculty Insights
Presenters: Dr. Jessica Nolan and Dr. Jack Strain, Location: The PNC Board Room, 500
12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Keynote Luncheon: From Access to Success: Supporting and Empowering First Generation, Lower-Income Students in Diversifying Institutions
Presenter: Dr. Khristina F. Gonzalez, Associate Dean of the College, and Bob Peck ’88 Director of the Emma Bloomberg Center for Access and Opportunity at Princeton University, Location: The Rose Room, 509
Registration required by Wednesday, Sept. 21 by noon for luncheon. RSVP here.
1:30 - 3:45 p.m.
- Race and Ethnicity Awareness Training
Presenters: Dr. Tara Hamilton-Fay and Elizabeth Garcia, B.A, J.D., Location: The Pearn Auditorium, Brennan 228
- Safe Zone Training
Presenters: Shannon Murphy-Fennie, B.A, MS and Dr. Billie Tadros, Location: The Casey Conference Room, Brennan 502
Sponsored by the Office of the Provost, the Council for Diversity and Inclusion’s Faculty Development Subcommittee, and the Office of Equity and Diversity.
Contact diversity@scranton.edu for more information.
Faculty Development Day: Creating a Welcoming and Inclusive Classroom
The University of Scranton named seven individuals to its Board of Trustees: William Canny ’77, H’07; Joseph Collins ’90; Mary Collins, Ph.D.; Matthew Cooper, M.D. ’90; Lisa DeNaples, D.M.D.; Rev. Keith Maczkiewicz, S.J.; and Rev. Adam Rosinski, S.J. ’07.
William Canny
William Canny, executive director of United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Migration and Refugee Services (USCCB/MRS), has more than 30 years of service to the Catholic Church and to refugees and migrants through his current position, as well as previous positions held at Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and the International Catholic Migration Commission.
Canny joined USCCB/MRS in 2015. He previously served as CRS in several positions during the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s. He served as director of emergency operations at CRS from 2010 to 2012, leading the emergency department in global prevention, preparedness, protection and response operations. Canny directed CRS’ initial response to the Haiti earthquake of 2010. From 1998 to 2004, Canny served as secretary general for the International Catholic Migration Commission. He also served as the chief operations officer of the Papal Foundation.
Throughout his distinguished career, Canny has demonstrated commitment to – and has provided a wealth of experience in – providing service to migrants, refugees and others in need. He has lived and worked in Niger, Djibouti, Burkina Faso, India, Switzerland and Haiti.
Canny received an honorary doctorate in humane letters from The University of Scranton at the New Student Assembly in 2007. He earned a bachelor’s degree in human services in 1977 from
Scranton and a master’s degree in public health from the University of Pittsburgh. He lives in Bethesda, Maryland, with his wife Patricia and his twin sons Alex and Roan.
Joseph Collins
Joseph Collins, vice president, Medical Intelligence, Patient Insights and Solutions at Astellas Pharmaceuticals, has spent his career in the pharmaceutical industry. At Astellas, a global Life Sciences organization, Collins manages teams tasked with ensuring the perspective and insights of patients and healthcare providers are considered in all phases of drug development and commercialization. Prior to joining Astellas, he worked at Sanofi and Roche Pharmaceuticals.
Collins is active in several organizations including serving on the board of Times Shamrock Communications. He is a member of the President’s Business Council at The University of Scranton and serves as a mentor to undergraduates in the Kania School of Management. He has served on the Devon Preparatory School Alumni Board, Keystone College Board of Trustees and the Greater Scranton Area Chamber of Commerce.
Collins graduated from The University of Scranton in 1990 with dual bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history and received his master’s in business administration from Villanova University in 2007. He lives in Scranton with his wife Mauri Haggerty Collins and their five daughters Clare, Catie, Cecelia, Rita and Elizabeth.
Mary Collins, Ph.D.
Dr. Mary Collins, associate provost and as a resident Chaplain at Le Moyne College, has 40 years of experience in Jesuit Catholic higher education. During her time at Le Moyne College, Dr. Collins has served as associate provost for twelve years, as resident Chaplain for ten years, as the inaugural dean of management for several years, as the department chair of accounting for multiple terms, and as Faculty Senate president three times. As a faculty member, Dr. Collins, who is also a licensed certified public accountant in New York, has taught upper-division courses in financial accounting and auditing, pursued her research interest on budgets and organizational behavior and served on numerous committees primarily in academic affairs and finance. She received two awards for teaching excellence.
During her distinguished career, Dr. Collins has served on numerous boards, including the Institute of Internal Auditors of Central New York Chapter, Peace Action of Central New York, VNA Systems, Inc., among others. She served on numerous committees of professional organizations and
local initiatives including the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, vice-chair of Mayor’s Commission on Living Wage, New York State’s Assembly’s Task Force on University-Industry Cooperation and the American Accounting Association Auditing Section National Committee, to name a few.
Dr. Collins earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Le Moyne College, and her master’s degree in accounting and Ph.D., focusing on accounting and organization behavior, change and development, from Syracuse University.
Matthew Cooper, M.D.
Dr. Matthew Cooper is a professor of surgery at Georgetown School of Medicine, and director of kidney and pancreas transplantation and director for quality at the Medstar Georgetown Transplant Institute (MGTI). He is involved in transplantation activities both in the U.S. and around the world. He is the current United Network for Organ Sharing/Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network president. He is a member of the National and D.C. Board of Directors for the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) and a member of the NKF’s National Transplant Task Force. He has served as a councillor for the American Society of Transplant Surgeons. He is a current board member for the National Kidney Registry, the American Foundation for Donation and Transplantation, the International Pancreas and Islet Cell Transplant Association and Donate Life America. Dr. Cooper has served as chair of the American Transplant Congress.
Dr. Cooper seeks new opportunities for living donation through innovation and by removing the disincentives for those considering donation while promoting the safety and long-term care of live organ donors. His clinical interests include kidney and pancreas transplantation; particularly the use of marginal organs. He has authored over 220 peer-reviewed manuscripts, 300 abstracts and 12 book chapters. He is regularly invited to speak on a variety of transplant-related topics both nationally and internationally.
Prior to his current role at Medstar Georgetown Transplant Institute, which he began in 2012, Dr. Cooper directed the kidney transplant and clinical research program the University of Maryland (2005-2012). He joined the transplant faculty at the Johns Hopkins Hospital upon completion of his training and was appointed surgical director of kidney transplantation and clinical research in 2003.
Dr. Cooper graduated from The University of Scranton in 1990, earning his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry. He earned his medical degree from the Georgetown University School of Medicine.
He completed his general surgery training at the Medical College of Wisconsin followed by a fellowship in multi-organ abdominal transplantation at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore.
Dr. Cooper and his wife, Alicia, reside in Columbia, Maryland. They are the parents of 3 children: Julia’ 19, Emily and Matthew.
Lisa DeNaples, D.M.D.
Dr. Lisa DeNaples, is owner and managing trustee at Mount Airy Casino Resort in Mount Pocono, a premier resort in the Poconos with nearly 300 rooms, a spa and salon and five restaurants. Mount Airy was the first AAA Four Diamond casino resort in Pennsylvania.
When a hand injury forced Dr. DeNaples to reduce some of her dental work, she became co-owner and vice president of a Harley Davidson Dealership located in Williamsport. She attended Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, California, for one and a half years, where she had an externship in the City District Attorney’s Office. While attending law school, she was asked by her father to lead the Mount Airy Project where she currently serves as owner and managing trustee.
Dr. DeNaples is a current board member of Highmark Blue Cross. She is a former board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Scranton, Pocono Mountain Visitors Bureau, The University of Scranton, Scranton Council on Literacy Advance (SCOLA) and Mercy Hospital (Scranton Regional Hospital).
A graduate of Scranton Preparatory School, Dr. DeNaples earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Marywood University. She earned her doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania Dental School with a focus on General Family Dentistry.
Rev. Keith Maczkiewicz, S.J.
Rev. Keith Maczkiewicz, S.J., is the director of campus ministry and university Chaplain at Fairfield University, where he has served since July 2021. A native of Long Island, New York, he joined the East Coast Province Jesuits in the summer of 2008. He has served mainly in campus ministry at the college and high school level, in retreat work, and in faith formation. He has also served as the director of religious education at a diverse parish in Oakland, California.
Father Maczkiewicz was ordained a priest in June 2018 and has worked in campus ministry at Georgetown University, the College of the Holy Cross and The University of Scranton, where he lived in Hafey Hall as a resident minister from 2006 to 2008.
Father Maczkiewicz earned his bachelor’s degree in history/American studies/education from Fairfield University and his master’s degree in secondary education from Providence College. After entering the Society of Jesus, he completed his philosophy studies and earned a master’s degree from Loyola University Chicago and his completed theology studies earning a M.Div., Th.M., S.T.L. at the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley, California. He is currently a student in the Executive Doctor of Higher Education program at Boston College, in its inaugural cohort.
Rev. Adam Rosinski, S.J.
Rev. Adam Rosinski, S.J., a priest of the USA East Jesuit Province, currently serves as the Socius and assistant director of novices at the St. Andrew Hall Jesuit Novitiate in Syracuse, New York. Since his ordination to the priesthood in 2019, he previously served as associate pastor at St. Raphael Catholic Church in Raleigh, North Carolina, and as the assistant director and promoter of vocations for the Jesuits’ USA East Province.
Father Rosinski serves as a trustee of St. Joseph's Preparatory School in Philadelphia.
Father Rosinski earned his bachelor’s degree in theology and counseling and human services from The University of Scranton in 2007. He entered the Society of Jesus in 2009 and, during his Jesuit formation, he earned his master’s degree in social philosophy from Loyola University Chicago, served as a teacher and campus minister at St. Joseph’s Prep in Philadelphia, and went on to earn Master of Divinity and Master of Theology degrees from the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry.
University of Scranton Names Seven New Trustees
On Saturday, Sept. 24, Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a performance by acclaimed trumpeter Joseph Boga and the Scranton Ramblers at its annual Family Weekend Concert. The performance, which will also include an appearance by The University of Scranton Concert Choir, begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis. Check the events on Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for a link to information regarding any venue requirements for guests, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.
The concert will begin with the Concert Choir performing three standards from the Great American Songbook repertoire, two of them along with the guest ensemble, according to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga. Boga says, “We always try to invite musicians who are part of our Performance Music ‘family’ of guest artists to perform on Family Weekend, but some years – like this one – the family designation is literal!”
Joseph Boga is Boga’s son, a longtime friend and colleague of newly appointed Conductor and Co-Director of Performance Music Philip Kuehn, and a 2014 graduate of The Juilliard School. He has been a part of Performance Music at Scranton for more than 30 years – as a two year old he was in charge of setting up chairs and stands, and he now makes it a priority to find the time in his busy performance schedule to return regularly to share his talents as a performer, composer, conductor and educator with the university community.
For the performance he will be joined by reedman Dan Block, trombonist Sam Chess, pianist Dalton Ridenour, bass saxophonist Jay Rattman (also an NEPA native), and drummer Paul Wells.
Joseph is a member of the legendary ensemble Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks. He has performed at numerous venues throughout the United States and abroad, and is equally at home playing in the jazz and classical genres. As a composer and arranger, he has written for brass orchestra, big band, string orchestra, choir, and various-sized jazz ensembles.
In jazz, he leads his own small group, and - in addition to his work with the Nighthawks - performs with a variety of artists and ensembles, including David Ostwald's Louis Armstrong Eternity Band, James Langton’s New York All-Star Big Band, Kyle Athayde Dance Party, Wycliffe Gordon, Adrian Cunningham, Gordon Webster, and many others. Classically, Boga has performed as a soloist and ensemble player with a variety of orchestras and smaller groups, including the International Contemporary Ensemble, New York Trumpet Ensemble, Garden State Philharmonic, Scranton Brass Orchestra, and Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic.
Boga’s radio and film credits include recording and filming with Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks for the second season of the hit series “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” WVIA's "Keystone Edition Arts: Generations in Jazz" special with Dave Liebman and Nancy Reed, an interview and performance with Jools Holland at the Louis Armstrong House for BBC Radio’s “On The Road with Jools Holland,” recording with Wycliffe Gordon in the big band for the documentary "Mary Lou Williams, The Lady Who Swings The Band,” and playing on the soundtrack as well as appearing in the new Martin Scorcese film “Killers of the Flower Moon,” which will be released in spring.
About Performance Music at The University of Scranton
The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles. There is no major in music at the University, and all enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible for membership in the University Bands, University Performance Choirs, University String Orchestra & Ensembles, and Steel Drum Ensemble. Neither an audition nor enrollment fee is required for membership. A number of members of the faculty and staff, as well as alumni from the region, also perform with the groups. Each year, hundreds of students participate in the ensembles.
For additional information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For additional on the musicians, please visit: JOSEPH BOGA: josephboga.com,
DAN BLOCK: juilliard.edu/music/faculty/block-dan, SAM CHESS: samchessmusic.com, DALTON Ridenour: daltonridenhour.com, JAY RATTMAN: jayrattman.com, PAUL WELLS: paulwellsdrums.com
If you go
What: Annual Family Weekend Concert, featuring Joseph Boga and the Scranton Ramblers, with an appearance by The University of Scranton Concert Choir, presented by Performance Music at The University of Scranton
When: Saturday, Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton
Admission: Free
Family Weekend Concert to feature Joseph Boga and the Scranton Ramblers
The University of Scranton’s Schemel Forum will present two eclectic Collaborative Programs this fall.
On Thursday, Oct. 13, Julie Byerley, M.D., dean of the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine (GCSOM), president of Geisinger College of Health Sciences and executive vice president and chief academic officer, Geisinger, will present “Threats to Equity: The Influence of Social Determinants on Human Behaviors that Promote Well-being.” Co-sponsored by GCSOM, the program will take place from noon to 1:30 p.m. in Brennan Hall’s Rose Room, and will also be streamed remotely.
A pediatrician by training, Byerley’s former clinical practice was focused on the care of adolescents with fatigue, chronic pain, anxiety and depression. Combining her interest in health habits that help combat these conditions with a drive to enhance overall health equity, she’ll examine how social determinants influence behaviors that improve well-being. Attendees will be encouraged to consider how daily habits influence the health of individuals and communities alike.
Admission to the program is free for University students, faculty and staff and Schemel Forum members. For non-members, the fee is $25 per individual and $50 per couple for in-person, and $10 per individual and $20 per couple for remote-only. To register, contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816 or kym.fetsko@scranton.edu. Or, to pay online, visit www.scranton.edu/schemelforum.
Then, on Friday, Nov.18, the Schemel Forum will partner with the Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library to present the Royden B. Davis, S.J. Distinguished Author Award Event honoring Pulitzer Prize-winning and Tony Award-nominated playwright, novelist and screenwriter Ayad Akhtar. The event begins at 6 p.m. in the DeNaples Center’s McIlhenny Ballroom. Reservations are required to attend, and ticket prices vary.
Akhtar is the winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, the Edith Wharton Citation of Merit for Fiction, and an Award in Literature from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. He is the author of “Homeland Elegies,” which The Washington Post called “a tour de force” and The New York Times called “a beautiful novel…that had echoes of ‘The Great Gatsby’ and that circles, with pointed intellect, the possibilities and limitations of American life.” His first novel, “American Dervish,” was published in over 20 languages. His plays include “Junk,” “Disgraced,” “The Who & The What” and “The Invisible Hand.”
For more information on the Distinguished Author Award Event, visit scranton.edu/authaward or contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816 or kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
For more information on Schemel Forum programs and memberships, contact Sondra Myers, Schemel Forum director, at 570-941-4089 or sondra.myers@scranton.edu.
Schemel Forum Collaborative Programs Set for Fall
Representatives from NASA will be at The University of Scranton on Thursday, Sept. 22, to discuss space technology and Artemis, a robotic and human Moon exploration program led by NASA. At a 7 p.m. panel discussion and reception, area high school and college students and their families, can also learn about career paths at NASA and how students can become involved with the Artemis Generation.
The event, titled “We Are Going: Artemis and the Role of Space Technology,” will begin with a panel discussion at 7 p.m. in PNC Auditorium of University’s Loyola Science Center. Panelists will discuss how technology drives exploration. They will discuss how, through Artemis, NASA will return to the Moon and test the technologies needed to take the next giant leap: sending astronauts to Mars. Panelists will discuss how NASA’s investments in research and development contribute to science and human exploration missions, and support opportunities and advancements on Earth. They will also discuss how the agency’s work benefits communities across the country, and how individuals can join the Artemis Generation.
A reception will immediately follow the panel discussion in the Atrium of Loyola Science Center. The event is free of charge.
Panelists are: Niki Werkheiser, director for Technology Maturation, Space Technology Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters; Jason L. Kessler, program executive, Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Program, Space Technology Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters; and Stephanie Yeldell, education integration lead, Space Technology Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters.
Earlier in the day, Werkheiser will speak to University of Scranton students at an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) meeting on campus.
On Sept. 23, NASA will offer an industry day and networking event focused on collaboration opportunities with local businesses at the University’s DeNaples Center. NASA Northeast Pennsylvania Industry Day will begin at 9 a.m. and will include national and local speakers, presentations, and networking opportunities in collaboration with the Keystone Space Collaborative, Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center, and Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance Procurement Technical Assistance Center. Local business owners, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and university representatives are encouraged to attend the free event. Registration is required and can be made on the event’s website.
The Sept. 22 NASA panel discussion and reception, titled “We Are Going: Artemis and the Role of Space Technology,” is free of charge and does not require reservations.
For more information about the NASA event on Sept. 22, contact the University’s Office of Community and Government Relations at community@scranton.edu or 570-941-4419.
NASA to Discuss Artemis Space Technology Sept. 22
Oct. 1 9 a.m. Scranton’s Ready to Run Northeast Pennsylvania Program: “Wanted: More Women Like You in Politics.” Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6326 or email sharon.olechna@scranton.edu.
Oct. 5 6 p.m. Asian Studies Public Lecture and Meet the Award-winning Author “Life on the Move: Transnational Migration and Cross-Cultural Imagination in Taiwan Literature and Film,” Part 1. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Free. Call 570-941-6312 or email ann.pang-white@scranton.edu.
Oct. 6 6 p.m. Asian Studies Film Screening and Meet the Award-winning Director of “The Good Daughter.” “Life on the Move: Transnational Migration and Cross-Cultural Imagination in Taiwan Literature and Film,” Part 2. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Free, Call 570-941-6312 or email ann.pang-white@scranton.edu.
Oct. 7 through Nov. 18 Art Exhibit: “Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala” photographs by Byron Maldonado. Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Oct. 7 5 p.m. Art Gallery Lecture: “Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala” presented by Byron Maldonado. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Reception follows at the Hope Horn Gallery. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Oct. 12 1 p.m. The Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Virtual Speaker Series: “Career Opportunities in the Changing Workplace” with panel moderator Kathleen West-Evans, MPA, CRC. Presented by the J. A. Panuska College of Professional Studies and the Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Endowment. Free. Visit www.scranton.edu/disabilityconference. Call 570-941-7401.
Oct. 12 7:30 p.m. Ignatian Values in Action Lecture: “On Juneteenth” presented by Annette Gordon-Reed, Pulitzer Prize winner and New York Times best-selling author. Byron Recreation Complex. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Oct. 13 Noon. Schemel Forum and Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Collaborative Program: “Threats to Equity: The Influence of Social Determinants on Human Behaviors that Promote Well-being” presented Julie Byerley, MD, president and dean of Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Oct. 15 2 p.m. Art Gallery: “Walking Tour: Scranton Lace Company/Lace Village Site.” Free. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu
Oct. 15 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital” featuring Andrew Gonzalez, viola and violincello da spalla. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Oct. 19 1 p.m. The Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Virtual Speaker Series: “Embedding Deia: A Cultural-Shift for Business, Communities, and You!” Speakers Hattie McCarter, MS, CRC; CEO of M.E.N.D. Consulting Solutions and certified DEI professional and Stephanie Perry, MSW, LSW DEI consultant. Presented by the J. A. Panuska College of Professional Studies and the Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Endowment. Free. Visit www.scranton.edu/disabilityconference. Call 570-941-7401.
Oct. 21-23 and 28-30 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. “Almost, Maine” presented by The University Players. Royal Theater, McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. Ticket prices vary. Call 570-941-4318 or email players@scranton.edu.
Oct. 23 9 a.m. Open House for prospective students and their families. Various locations on campus. Registration required. Free. Call 888-SCRANTON or email admissions@scranton.edu.
Oct. 23 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital” featuring Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner, piano. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Oct. 26 1 p.m. The Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Virtual Speaker Series: “A Framework for Community Engagement: A Pathway to Employment” with speakers Cayte Anderson, Ph.D., and Emily Brinck, Ph.D., both are researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, VRTAC-QE. Presented by the J. A. Panuska College of Professional Studies and the Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Endowment. Free. Visit www.scranton.edu/disabilityconference. Call 570-941-7401.
Oct. 29 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring The University of Scranton Jazz Band and guest drummer Carmen Intorre Jr. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
October Events Planned at University
Margarete L. Zalon, Ph.D., professor of nursing, received the John L. Earl III Award for service to the University, the faculty and the wider community. The 2022 John L. Earl III Award was presented at the University’s annual Fall Convocation, which took place on campus on Sept. 2.
The award is given annually to a member of the University community who demonstrates the spirit of generosity and dedication that the late Dr. John Earl, a distinguished professor of history, exemplified during his years at Scranton from 1964 to 1996.
Daniel J. West Jr., Ph.D., professor and chair the Health Administration and Human Resources Department at The University of Scranton and the 2021 John L. Earl III Award recipient, announced Dr. Zalon as the 2022 recipient at the Convocation. Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, presented the award to Dr. Zalon.
During her more than three decades of service at the University, Dr. Zalon has served on numerous committees, including in leadership roles on the Faculty Senate and FAC. As director of the University’s online Master of Science in Health Informatics Program, Dr. Zalon has played a pivotal role in the program’s success. In 2021, the graduate program received accreditation from the prestigious Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).
Dr. Zalon, who has been a member of Scranton’s faculty since 1988, was inducted as an American Academy of Nursing Fellow in 2010 in part for her positive influence on health care policy and delivery. Her leadership legacy includes grassroots advocacy, progressive program design, execution and outcomes in state and national nursing organizations focused on establishing practice and education policy, and building research funding capacity.
Dr. Zalon is a past chair of the American Nurses Foundation, a former board member of the American Nurses Association and a past president of the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association.
Dr. Zalon’s research focuses on vulnerable elders. She has authored book chapters, as well as articles published in numerous scholarly journals and other professional publications. She has also made research and health policy presentations at the local, state, national and international levels. She is the co-author of the book “Nurses Making Policy: From Bedside to Boardroom” with Rebecca M. Patton, MSN and Ruth Ludwick, Ph.D.
Dr. Zalon is a recipient of the Duke University School of Nursing Distinguished Alumna Award, the PSNA Distinguished Nurse Award and a Leahy Fellowship at The University of Scranton. She also received the University’s Excellence in Advancing Interdisciplinary Study Award in 2020.
Dr. Zalon earned her bachelor’s degree from Duke University and her master’s and Ph.D. degrees from New York University.
Margarete L. Zalon, Ph.D., Receives Earl Award
The University of Scranton’s Office of Community Relations hosted its 12th Annual Scavenger Hunt in downtown Scranton, offering students an opportunity to explore the city during their first weeks at the University.
The hunt on Sept. 2 and 3 included businesses, historical sites, landmarks, and murals. For many incoming students, this event is their first chance to explore the downtown area. This year, it fell on First Friday, a self-guided art walk that celebrates local works, and the first day of La Festa Italiana.
Over 30 participating locations from across downtown hosted “Iggy” posters, featuring the University mascot, in their windows for students to find. Students could scan QR codes on the posters, shown below and at bottom, to receive a clues with more information about the next locations; they could participate completely outdoors and asynchronously.
In addition to the Scavenger Hunt, this year’s event included two photo contests: one focusing on downtown landmarks and artistic murals, and the other honoring the most creative photo overall. This year’s hunt also included a First Friday event with free Scavenger Hunt T-shirts for the first 100 registered students, and decorative, Scranton-themed sugar cookies by Lynn Sandy’s Bakery.
Meet The Winners
* Scavenger Hunt Winners:
Grand Prize: Shaye Idema ’26 and Rowan Cann ‘26
Runners Up: Julianna Straub ‘26 and Alice Vyskocil ‘26
* Downtown Murals and Landmarks Photo Contest Winners:
Grand Prize: Edward H. Fargis ‘23
* Creativity Photo Contest Winners:
Grand Prize: Anthony R. Santos ‘26 and Johnathan Fisher ‘26
Runners Up: Quentin Pegan ‘26 and Sheldon (Ciggy) Meyers ‘26
Over 150 students registered for the event and 32 downtown businesses and cultural and city venues offered students a chance to experience different facets of the city.
This event was held in collaboration with The Center for Student Engagement, The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce & Metro Action, and Scranton Tomorrow/Main Street Scranton.
Meet the 12th annual Scavenger Hunt Sponsors
Adezzo
Amendolaro Boutique
Backyard Ale House
Boden
Chef Von & Mom
City Market Café
Commonwealth Coffeehouse
Coney Island Lunch
Coney Island of Scranton
Crunch Scranton
Downtown Deli
Eden-A Vegan Café
Electric City Bake House
Fork N Bowl
Freedlove
Heaven & Earth Café
Hilton Scranton & Conference Center
New Laundry
Northern Light Espresso Bar & Café
Osaka
Over the Moon
Peculiar Slurp Shop
Pilgers' Pastries
Pink Pedal
Pizza by Pappas
Scoops on Spruce
The Daisy Collective
The Garden
The Giving Tree Wellness Center
The Railyard
The Salad Shop
Tusk
Scavenger Hunt invites students to explore city
Wait...dogs are needed! To participate, dogs need to be even-tempered, social, fully-vaccinated and great with lots of people and other dogs. Owners with the time and interest to attend, should register by Friday, Sept. 23. Dog owners can be parents of current students, alumni, members of the University community or therapy dog owners over the age of 18. Please refer to the University Animals on Campus policy before entering any indoor buildings.
There is no advance registration for visitors, but a Royal card is needed to swipe in. Event is not open to the public.
Email Ellen.Judge@scranton.edu with any questions or concerns. The event is hosted by The Center for Service & Social Justice.
Dogs, owners and campus community welcome for Pet Therapy
The Center for Service and Social Justice is hosting a two-day blood drive with the Red Cross Sept. 14 and 15 from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. in the Long Center lobby.
To make an appointments visit https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive and search zip code 18510. Walk-ins also welcome.
Please bring ID. Questions or concerns? Contact Ellen.Judge@scranton.edu.
Blood Drive Sept 14 and 15
By: Claire Sunday ’23, student correspondent
Nicole Hoskins, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the theology department at the University of Scranton who became a full-time faculty member in the 2021-2022 academic year.
Dr. Nicole Hoskins brings classes on Black theology and African American Christian history to the theology department at The University of Scranton. In these classes, she helps her students to grow in their faiths. She also challenges their thinking so that they might come to “see themselves as active participants in their education.”
Dr. Hoskins’ courses focus on those who have been marginalized in our communities, and it is through this perspective that she incorporates the Jesuit mission into her classroom.
“Being people for others,” she said, “means something more when you realize how marginalized people have been othered. Caring for the whole person means something more when you realize that because of enslavement, Black people were considered non-human and later ¾ of a person.”
She does not shy away from the truths of our history’s racist past, but she also does not let our history place her students in despair. For example, she confronts with her students the Black enslavement by the Jesuits, but with hopes that “we let it inform us [on] how to build a more just path forward.” Students in her classroom are encouraged to contend verbally with new knowledge being presented to them and to grow in understanding with their peers. They are inspired to turn their feelings into a passion for justice so that they may help to create a fairer and more equitable world.
Dr. Hoskins seeks to continue her efforts for students at The University of Scranton by working with two new Black faculty members to create the school’s first Black Studies concentration. Together, they are aspiring for Black Studies to be offered one day as a major for Scranton students. Additionally, she hopes that the University will continue to take measures to improve the diversity on campus; she hopes that “the University continues to hire diverse faculty members and staff whose goal is to confront anti-Black racism and…that the University does more targeted outreach in the city of Scranton. The city of Scranton is more diverse than the University of Scranton. The good news is that we don’t have to look far to find more diverse students.”
Current research interests are leading Dr. Hoskins to think critically about discussions between Black studies and Native American studies. She believes these conversations can have an impact on how environmental ethics and eco-theology are considered: “We’ve been talking about the making of the category of the human and the making of the land as land in relation to Blackness and indigeneity.”
Currently, the professor is teaching a Black Spiritual Feminism class, as well as a Theology II class, and some students have elected to take multiple classes offered. This speaks to her impact on students, which may mirror the impact that someone once had on Dr. Hoskins: “It wasn’t advice…it was seeing. They said to me, ‘You are enough.’.” This is how she hopes students feel in her classes. More importantly, it is how she calls her students to view others.
MEET NICOLE HOSKINS, PH.D.:
Dr. Nicole Hoskins graduated from Spelman College with a bachelor’s degree in religious studies before graduating from Harvard Divinity School with her Masters of Divinity. At Drew University, Dr. Hoskins received her Ph.D. in religion and society. There, she was the recipient of the Charlotte W. Newcombe Fellowship, Louisville Institute Fellowship, and the Forum for Theological Education Fellowship.
Faculty Profiles: A Conversation with Nicole Hoskins, Ph.D.
“The Office” cast member and New York Times best-selling author Brian Baumgartner will visit The University of Scranton on Thursday, Sept. 15, for an exclusive Q and A with students, faculty and staff, followed by book signing just for members of the University community. The event comes two-days after publication of his latest book, “Seriously Good Chili Cookbook.”
Baumgartner was on campus in November 2021 for a student Q and A and book signing for his then just published book “Welcome to Dunder Mifflin: The Ultimate Oral History of The Office,” which became a New York Times best-seller.
Baumgartner will be on campus as part of a tour to promote his second book, “Seriously Good Chili Cookbook.” In real life, Baumgartner is “a true chili master and aficionado,” who is “just as serious as his fictional counterpart about making the most perfect pot of chili.” His first cookbook features 177 chili recipes hand-picked by Baumgartner. Written in a humorous and friendly tone, the book showcases specific styles of chili, including Texas chili, Cincinnati chili, vegetarian chili, black bean chili and home-style chili, as well as other regional and international variations and a bonus recipe of the official “Kevin’s Famous Chili” recipe from The Office. The book is also peppered with fun chili facts.
Baumgartner played Kevin Malone on The Office, which originally aired on NBC from 2005 to 2013, was among the most popular shows on Netflix and can now be seen on Peacock. He was among the cast members who visited the University for The Office Convention in 2007 and The Wrap Party in 2013. He was also on campus for the taping of his popular podcast on the history of The Office, which was the precursor to his first book, “Welcome to Dunder Mifflin: The Ultimate Oral History of The Office.”
Called “The definitive history of The Office” by E! News, “Welcome to Dunder Mifflin,” co-authored with Ben Silverman, the executive producer of The Office, is based on hundreds of hours of exclusive interviews with the actors, creators, writers, producers, directors, network executives and crew members of The Office, who share their favorite stories of the making of what became the most-watched series in the world.
Pre-registration is required to attend the Q & A, which begins on Sept. 15 at 4:30 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center. A book signing immediately follows at 5:30 p.m. Both events require Royal cards for access.
“Seriously Good Chili Cookbook,” published by Fox Chapel, can be pre-ordered at the University’s book store or its webpage, with copies available prior to the book signing.
Two public book-signing events are planned for area residents with Baumgartner the following day, Sept. 16. He will be at a book signing at Books-A-Million at the Viewmont Mall in Dickson City from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Baumgartner will also be at a book signing at PNC Field on the Geisinger Plaza (inside the main entrance) from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Friday evening event will also feature a Backyard BBQ with chili and fireworks.
Exclusive Campus Visit by Brian Baumgartner Sept. 15
To suggest suggest a club for a future Royal News article, share ideas, or to inform us of any upcoming club events, please email RoyalNews@scranton.edu or Gabriella.petti@scranton.edu
GET INVOLVED
Club: University of Scranton Women’s Rugby Club, Scranton Valkyries
Meet: Natalie Tiu, '22, a kinesiology major from Metuchen, NJ, #7 shown in the photo, above.
Connect: Follow the club at on Instagram @uofswomensrugby
By: Gabriella Petti ’24, student correspondent
Q: Why did you join the rugby club?
"I played sports my entire life leading up to college, and wanted to continue to stay active and play a sport competitively. I missed the dynamic of a team, and knew that a close-knit team like rugby was something that I wanted for my college experience."
Q: What does a typical practice look like?
"A typical practice is one to two hours. We don’t have a coach, so our practices are run by our four captains elected by the previous year’s team.
At the beginning of the season, we go over technical skills, like throwing, tackling, rucking, scrumming, because most players who join have no rugby experience. We teach how to safely perform each skill necessary for the game. As the season moves forward, we hone those skills and add game strategy. Everyone wants to succeed and improve, so they are open to critique from the captains and veteran teammates.
We tend to end practices with scrimmages and rugby games, which helps build trust within the team. Trust is a big component of rugby because each member has to rely on each other to make their tackles, make the pass, hold each other up in the scrum and be successful on the pitch. Having strong team chemistry sets teams apart from each other. We make sure to build on it at each practice."
Q: What is the best part about Scranton rugby?
"The camaraderie is definitely the best part about this team. There are lots of times when we’re just cracking jokes and having fun because it’s a safe environment to be yourself and make mistakes, yet be supported when you’re successful. At the end of the day we’re friends as well as teammates. Whether on the rugby pitch or around campus, being on this team means you’re part of a community, and the team dynamic is a big reason why I stayed on the team throughout college."
Q: What is your most memorable moment from the sport?
"Every spring, we participate in a tournament that fundraises for Becca’s Closet, an organization that donates formal dresses to high school students who can’t afford them. The tournament is called the “Prom Dress Tournament” and we play in old or thrifted dresses. is such a unique experience getting to run and tackle in dresses. Our team has so much fun, and winds down after a long and competitive season."
Q: Who is your rugby inspiration, and why?
"Ilona Maher. She was on the USA Olympic Rugby team last summer. She really got people talking about the sport and gave exposure to rugby in the U.S. through her TikTok reels."
Q: What are your team’s goals for the season?
"Our goals for the season are to learn and feel comfortable playing 15s, a type of rugby we haven’t played since before the pandemic. Also to build our team chemistry by creating an atmosphere of friendship, and to continue to grow our organization."
Q: What is the most important thing you want people to know about your club?
"Everyone is welcome to join, we are very inclusive. Even if you’ve never played rugby, or any sports for that matter, all are welcome. We just ask that you come with an open mind and give it a try!"
During a Women's Rugby Club “Prom Dress Tournament” each spring, the group raises funds for Becca’s Closet, an organization that donates formal dresses to high school students who can’t afford them, said Natalie Tiu, '22, shown, top row center, wearing orange. Club members play in old or thrifted dresses.CLUB SPOTLIGHT: WOMEN'S RUGBY
Professor Sylvia M. Orner, Collections and Resource Management Librarian at the University of Scranton Weinberg Memorial Library has been elected as the First Vice-President/President Elect for the Pennsylvania Library Association (PaLA). She is an assistant professor in the Weinberg Memorial Library.
As First Vice President for 2023, Professor Orner will lead the organization's legislative efforts and advocate for fair funding of libraries in Pennsylvania. In 2024, she will serve as President of the Association. As President, she will preside over board meetings, run the annual membership business meeting, make appointments to committees, and advise on the operations of the organization.
Professor Orner has been a member of PaLA since 2010 and has served in various leadership positions, including Conference Committee Chair in 2020 and Chair of the Leadership Development Committee from 2017-2018. She joined the University of Scranton Weinberg Memorial Library in 2020. She began her journey to librarianship at a young age as an after-school page at the West Pittston Library. Upon completion of her MLIS, she served in various technical service roles at the Osterhout Free Library, Wilkes-Barre, PA and the Scranton Public Library, Scranton, PA.
Professor Orner earned her Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Gettysburg College and her Master of Science in Library and Information Science from Syracuse University.
State association elects University Librarian as First VP/President Elect
Save the dates for six ways to observe Hispanic Heritage Month.
The Multicultural Center invites students, faculty and staff to stop by and visit on Thursday, Sep. 15 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the 2nd floor of DeNaples at the Fireplace Lounge.
The Center will host a table sit to begin events in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Learn more about a month of upcoming activities, below, and at Thursday's table sit.
Six ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
1. See it on the big screen. Latin American and Latinx Studies Film Festival presents Que Viva El Barrio + Once Upon a Time in Venezuela, Sep. 15 @ 7:00p.m., Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall 228
2. Join in the dialogue. Race, Racism, and Identity Dialogue Series: Latino Culture and Identity on Sep. 21 @ 8:00p.m., McDonnell Room, DeNaples 405
3. Fill your life with flavor. Cultural Night with Salsa Magic on Sep. 29 @ 9:00-11:00p.m., McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples 407
4. Show off your knowledge. Hispanic Heritage Month Trivia Night on Oct. 6 @ 7:00p.m., McDonnell Room, DeNaples 405
5. View life through the lens. Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Toliman, Guatemala. Photographs by Byron Maldonado on Oct. 7
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Artist’s Lecture with Byron Maldonado: @ 5:00pm 6:00pm, Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall 228
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Public Reception: @ 6:00pm 8:00pm, The Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall 407
6. Hear and discover. Panel Conversation: What does it mean to be Hispanic, Latino/a/x? on Oct. 13 @ 6:00p.m.
For details, visit the Multicultural Center, DeNaples Center (205G) or contact Jose.Sanchez@scranton.edu.
Learn more about our multi-disciplinary Latin American and Latinx studies program HERE.
Hispanic Heritage Awareness Month events begin with Table Sit Sept. 15
By: Kelly Nee ' 23, student correspondent
Professor Vincent Rocco is a Faculty Specialist in the Operations and Analytics Department in the Kania School of Management (KSOM) who became a full-time faculty member in 2015.
Here, he discusses his time as an educator in the Operations and Analytics Department at the University of Scranton, his role as manager of the Alperin Financial Center, his teaching style, and the university's Jesuit mission.
"[As manager of the Alperin Financial Center] I was originally hired to train students on the Bloomberg Terminals. It has evolved to teaching classes in Excel, Tableau and Finance, as well. Bloomberg software is used throughout investment banks (Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, UBS, Morgan Stanley) and we are lucky to have 12 terminals in the Alperin Center. Not every school can say the same."
Professor Rocco explained that the Kania School of Management integrates the Bloomberg Terminals into the Bus140 – First Year Seminar course. Students are assigned companies and required to research current events, financials, and supply chain information, then present the material as part of a final project. Those students who have completed internships previously have gained some familiarity with the terminals, and are using them on the job.
To help improve the overall student experience, he continually seeks new technologies in analytics that can translate well into the classroom.
"Education, and how we learn is always evolving. This offers a great opportunity for us as a University to evolve as well. I think of myself as a resource for students. My door is always open to students who have any questions on college experience, career advice, what major to choose, and networking," he said.
What do you recommend to someone interested in pursuing a career in your field?
"In any field, you need to be humble, but not timid, and show an eagerness to learn more. You are not expected to know everything in your chosen field, but eagerness, along with good communication skills, can go a long way. Landing a job is a process that requires as many conversations as possible with people in the field. This includes alumni, professors, family and friends, among others. Do not be discouraged by rejection from a job. Use it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and find the right position."
How do you think the university's Jesuit mission has impacted your time as a professor?
"I attended Jesuit high school and college, and now find myself teaching at a Jesuit University. I never thought I would be in a teaching role. I believe that the Jesuit mission of becoming your best self, with continuous education and improvement, has impacted me greatly. I am extremely grateful to the University of Scranton for giving me that opportunity and I now believe it is my mission in helping students do the same."
What haVE been the biggest accomplishmentS of your career?
"Professionally, working as an equity trader in New York during some volatile economic times. Academically, finishing the Chartered Financial Analyst Certification in February of 2022."
MEET Professor Vincent ROCCO
Professor Vince Rocco received his bachelor's from Saint Joseph's University and his MBA from Wilkes University. Prior to joining the University, he worked at Wells Fargo as a private banker and a proprietary equity trader with the Royal Bank of Canada/AMR Capital. In 2019, he was honored with the Kania School of Management (KSOM) "Professor of the Year" award by the University's Business Club.
On the Lighter side
Professor Rocco says his favorite sports team is New York Mets. "This is one of my biggest stresses in life," he joked.
On his playlist you'll find everything from Johnny Cash to Nirvana. "There are so many bands that I love. I grew up in the '90s when Nirvana and Pearl Jam were huge, so I still love that era and listen to that music. But, I also love classic rock like The Grateful Dead, Led Zeppelin, The Allman Brothers Band, Johnny Cash."
FACULTY PROFILES: A CONVERSATION WITH Vincent Rocco
U.S. News & World Report ranked Scranton No. 5 among the “Best Regional Universities in the North” in the 2023 edition of the “Best Colleges” guidebook, which became available online today. U.S. News has ranked Scranton among the top 10 universities in its category for 29 consecutive years.
U.S. News also ranked Scranton No. 6 in its category for “Best Undergraduate Teaching,” a selection of the top colleges in the nation that express a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching.
“Our students and their parents, our faculty and staff, and our alumni know well and value greatly the quality of the Jesuit education offered at Scranton. However, it is also very gratifying for Scranton to receive such consistently high-marks and recognition from more impartial sources like U.S. News and other national rankings,” said Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton. “We are delighted U.S. News once again ranked Scranton No. 5 in its latest guidebook.”
Several of Scranton’s programs were also included in national rankings, as opposed to listings by category. U.S. News ranked Scranton among the nation’s “Best Undergraduate Programs in Accounting” at No. 44 in the U.S.; among the “Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs” at No. 135; and among “Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs” at No. 185 (where doctorate is not offered). Scranton’s was also listed among the 537 “Best Undergraduate Computer Science Programs” in the nation. Scranton also ranked No. 219 among America’s “Best Undergraduate Business Programs,” which listed just 516 schools that hold accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
For these program listings, U.S. News only ranked schools holding the highest recognized national accreditations in their fields. The rankings were based solely on dean and senior faculty recommendations from peer institutions.
In addition, U.S. News ranked Scranton No. 54 as a “Best Value Regional University in the North,” which compares academic quality of programs to cost of attendance. This is the tenth consecutive year U.S. News has recognized Scranton as a “Best Value” school. Scranton was ranked No. 145 in its category in “Top Performers on Social Mobility,” which looks at the success of schools that enroll and graduate students who were awarded with Pell Grants.
U.S. News uses data on 17 measures of academic quality to rank bachelor’s degree colleges in the America. For its rankings, U.S. News considers a range of quality indicators that include a peer assessment of academic excellence (20 percent); faculty resources (20 percent), which includes class size and regional cost-of-living adjustments to faculty pay and benefits; graduation rates (17.6 percent); freshman retention (4.4 percent); graduation performance rates (8 percent), which compares a school’s actual graduation rates with predicted graduation rates based on characteristics of the incoming class; financial resources (10 percent); a social mobility score (5 percent); graduate indebtedness (5 percent); and alumni giving (3 percent). U.S. News ranking analysis also includes student selectivity (7 percent), as measured by SAT or ACT scores and high school ranking of students in the top 25 percent of their class.
U.S. News categorizes colleges for their rankings based on the official Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classification of universities.
The 2023 U.S. News “Best Colleges” rankings became available online Sept. 12.
$content.getChild('content').textValueU.S. News Ranks Scranton No. 5 in 2023 Guidebook
“Once in office, compared to male colleagues, women sponsor more legislation in the U.S. Congress, bring back nine percent more federal funding to their districts, and are more responsive to their constituents back home. In both Congress and state legislatures, women are more likely to collaborate with other legislators,” wrote JoyAnna S. Hopper, Ph.D., director of the Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service and Assistant Professor of Political Science at The University of Scranton, in an editorial in the Scranton Times-Tribune, published Sept. 11.
In the editorial, Dr. Hopper spoke of the need for more women to serve in elected office and highlighted a training program, Ready to Run Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA), that encourages and trains women who are interested in becoming more involved in government. The Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service at Scranton, in collaboration with the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University, offers the non-partisan, campaign training programs that target women in in Bradford, Carbon, Columbia, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Montour, Northampton, Northumberland, Pike, Schuylkill, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties.
The next Ready to Run NEPA program is set for Saturday, Oct. 1, at The University of Scranton. Participants will gain insight into establishing themselves as credible and viable candidates as well as inspiration to launch a campaign. Topics covered include presentation and messaging skills; what makes women qualified candidates; and how to get started with your campaign. Participants will also gain an understanding of what the underrepresentation of women in Pennsylvania's state and local governments means for women, their families and our communities.
The session begins with check-in/registration at 9 a.m. on the fifth floor of Brennan Hall on the University’s campus and ends at 2 p.m. Refreshments, lunch and materials are included with the registration fee. The event is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Lackawanna County. WNEP is the media partner.
Registration is $30 for the general public or $10 for students with ID. A limited number of partial scholarships are also available. Registration is required to attend and can be completed online. (https://www.scranton.edu/academics/ready-to-run/registration.shtml).
For additional information visit the University’s Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service website or contact Sharon Olechna, administrative assistant for the Political Science Department, at 570-941-6326 or sharon.olechna@scranton.edu or readytorun@scranton.edu.
Ready to Run NEPA Set for Oct. 1 at University
Update: Due to a situation beyond his control, Vincent Grana will be unable to perform in recital Saturday evening. Carlos Avila will instead be joined by recent Grammy-nominee cellist Michael Nicolas.
Performance Music at The University of Scranton will welcome pianist Carlos Avila and bass vocalist Vincent Grana for a recital scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 17. The recital begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
According to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga, Avila has been a favorite performer at the University for the last decade, having appeared here both as a soloist, as well as with a variety of ensembles. Boga said, “As he serves as pianist for a number of renowned and ‘rising star’ operatic voices, I asked him to select the vocalist for this performance from among his favorite young artists on the national scene, and he is looking forward to introducing our Scranton audience to Vincent Grana.”
One of the most in-demand pianists on the classical music scene, the New York City-based Avila has played concerts across North and South America, Europe and Asia. He has performed at festivals such as Schleswig-Holstein, Tanglewood, Sarasota, Aspen, Banff, Music Academy of the West, Pianofest, Holland, ChamberFest Dubuque, Lake George and the Carnegie Hall Workshops.
An avid collaborator, Avila has maintained a 20-year partnership with acclaimed violinist Jay Oh, with whom he has given over 80 recitals across Asia and the United States. He has played at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s All-Access Chamber series and the New York Philharmonic’s Leonard Bernstein salon series, and has been showcased on New York’s WQXR, where he gave an all-transcription recital broadcast as one of the winners of The Juilliard School’s prestigious Gina Bachauer Piano Competition.
Avila serves on the collaborative piano faculty at the Heifetz Institute, and is a highly in-demand studio pianist at conservatories throughout the NYC area. A proud Filipino American, Avila is a graduate of Juilliard, where he studied with Jerome Lowenthal.
Based in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, Grana debuted at Dayton Opera performing the role of Zuniga in their production of Bizet’s Carmen. He has performed with the Castleton Festival under the baton of Maestro Lorin Maazel, covering such roles as Alcindoro and Benoit (“La Boheme”), Simone (“Gianni Schicchi”) and Escamillo in a concert performance of “Carmen.” In addition, he has performed in the Crested Butte Music Festival’s production of “L’elisir d’amore” and has worked with such renowned artists as Samuel Ramey.
A Philadelphia District winner at the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, Grana has sung with Sarasota Opera as an apprentice artist and performed the role of Simone in Puccini’s “Gianni Schicchi” with Martina Arroyo’s Prelude to Performance program in the summer of 2017. Some of his more recent roles include Gardiner in Opera San Jose’s production of “Moby Dick,” Il Priore in Bellini’s “La Straniera” and Podestà in Rossini’s “La Gazza Ladr,” both with Teatro Nuovo, and Rafael and Adam in Haydn’s “The Creation and Colline in La Boheme” at the Dayton Opera.
Grana received his bachelor’s degree in music education and master’s degree in vocal performance from the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University.
Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.
For further information on the recital, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more info on the performers, visit vincentgrana.com and artsglobal.org.
Carlos Avila and Vincent Grana Perform Sept. 17
The University Operations and Analytics Club is supporting the community with a fundraiser designed to support breast cancer research. Proceeds from sales of T-shirts created by club members will benefit Paint Pittston Pink™, a 501c3 organization established in 2014 with a mission to “bring the community together to support a cure for all cancers through research and clinical trials.”
One hundred percent of proceeds generated by Paint Pittston Pink™ are donated directly for research, using the Paint Pittston Pink™ Fund at The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA.
How to Support the cause
T-shirts are available for $15 each. Place an order in person on Sept. 27, 29 and Oct. 4 by visiting the club's table sales on the first floor of Brennan Hall and the DeNaples Center, or contact Operations and Analytics Club President Luke Glidewell, luke.glidewell@scranton.edu or Club Co-Moderator Dr. David Mahalak, david.mahalak@scranton.edu
About the CLUB
In its first year on campus, the Operations and Analytics Club hosted educational forums, guest speakers and panels, including the Female Leaders in Business Panel in spring 2022.
The mission of the club, according to Mahalak, faculty specialist in the Kania School of Management Operations and Analytics Department and club co-moderator, is to educate students about the latest trends, content, internship and employment opportunities in the fields of business analytics and operations management. It's also to connect students with business leaders and alumni, discuss special topics/interests in the fields of business analytics and operations management and implement service for the local community.
Mahalak will participate in the upcoming Paint Pittston Pink™ Gentleman's Dash as a tribute to those in his family who have been affected by cancer.
Operations and Analytics Club sale supports breast cancer research
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague’s accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!
THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for September 2022 is: David Zwanch, Infrastructure and Security Services
How long have you worked for the University?
I was hired just before the school year started in 2021, so I have worked for the University for a little over a year.
What do you like best about your job?
I like that I get to have an impact on the campus as a whole, since all facets of the University utilize the network.
What do you like to do for fun?
I love the outdoors. I like to mountain bike whenever I get the opportunity, I also enjoy hiking and camping with my wife Lisa and my dog Scout.
*****
We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that David does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating David and all our nominees.
David will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University foodservice outlets, as well as a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for the month of August. Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition event in May to receive a certificate of appreciation.
We congratulate our winner and all nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!
September 2022 Nominees:
Carl O’Neill, Advancement
Cathy Sanderson, Parking Services
Cindy Hricko, Information Technology
David Zwanch, Infrastructure & Security Services
Eileen Siock, Admissions
Elizabeth Chalk, Biology
Ellen Morgan, Counseling Center
Glen Pace, IT Client Services
Grace Sakevich, Admissions
Justin Tambeau, Facilities
Karl Johns, Technical Support
Lisa Notarianni, Information Technology
Lynn Pelick, Registrar
Margaret Mazzino, Facilities
May Ann Maslar, CAS Dean’s Office
Stephanie Adamec, CHEW
Synthia Guthrie-Kretsch, Mailing Services
Tom Cody, Infrastructure & Security Services
Tom Kern, IT Client Services
Tracy Muth, CAS Advising
Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award Winner, September
We will consider the impact of the 1902 anthracite strike and its impact and legacy for Scranton’s economic present and future. The event is part of the ongoing “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” National Endowment for the Humanities-funded project and the fall 2022 theme, From the Industrial Revolution to Act 47 and Beyond.
The event will take place Thursday, Sept. 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the Lackawanna County Courthouse, Room 3.
To register for the event, visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/1902Strike
For more information on the Scranton's Story project visit: www.scranton.edu/scrantonstory
Additional events in this theme include:
Register for the Sept. 8 event on the 1902 Anthracite Strike/Scranton's Economy
Performance Music is hosting two additional opportunities for new members to join.
STEEL DRUMS: Wednesday, Sept. 7, 5:30 p.m.(No prior percussion experience necessary.)
PERFORMANCE CHOIRS: Thursday Sept. 8, 5:30 p.m.
(All singers welcome.)
All rehearsals are held in the Houlihan McLean Center, Mulberry Street at Jefferson Avenue (use Jefferson Ave. door).
For more information: www.scranton.edu/music, (570) 941-7624, or music@scranton.edu
Play? Sing? It's not too late to join Performance Music
John Swarts, ’02, G’08, a new member of the Royal Printing team, recently participated in the Ritz Theater's 115th anniversary celebration by writing a modern-day adaptation of "Pinocchio". The 15-minute play was performed each day of La Festa Italiana, an annual celebration of food, culture and music hosted Sept. 4 -7 in downtown Scranton.
Swarts managed to stay one step ahead of Disney. His performance of toymaker Geppetto in Scranton, inspired by the book by Italian author Carlo Collodi, took place a few days prior to Tom Hanks’ appearance in the same role in Disney’s live action remake of the 1940 animated classic “Pinocchio”. On Sept. 8, Disney+ began worldwide streaming of the film directed by Robert Zemeckis.
Q: When did your interest/involvement with the arts begin?
A: “I enjoyed drawing and making art as a small child; it was my favorite subject. I painted a lot through my young adult years and branched out into printmaking and digital art as an adult. Teaching elementary art for the last seven years really widened my view of all of the arts, and when my children joined the Ritz Theater's Creative and Performing Arts Academy, I joined right along with them.”
Q: What did you enjoy most about writing and performing at the Ritz Theater's 115th celebration?
A: “I enjoyed the challenge of trying to take the familiar narrative of Pinocchio and change it to fit in with Northeast PA and LaFesta. Having Geppetto call out for a Porketta sandwich, and keeping the running gag about dangerous potholes flowing made it a lot of fun for an audience of many ages.”
Q: Why did you select "Pinocchio" when writing your modern-day adaptation?
A: “The LaFesta committee requested an Italian-themed play for their weekend from the Ritz. When executive producer Michael Melcher was kicking around ideas, I suggested Pinocchio, which was originally a book by Italian author Carlo Collodi. Then, he suggested that I should write it. I pecked at it over the summer and made it fit into the time and space constraints of LaFesta. Judging by the kids' reactions, it turned out pretty cute.”
Q: What surprised you most about this live performance?
A: “What surprised me most about this performance was how close we, the actors, could get to our audience. Unlike on the big Ritz stage where there's a separation between the actors and the audience, we were within an arm's reach of the children sitting up front. I moved through the crowd while searching for Pinocchio and the Turquoise Fairy, entered the stage area straight through the crowd. It was more intimate, more friendly, and less stressful than the big stage.”
Q: Have you been involved in other local theatre productions?
A: “Yes, I've been lucky enough to have done several main stage shows with the ultra-talented Ritz Players in the past few years. Most recently, I was Charlie Cowell in 'The Music Man' and Mr. Bundles in 'Annie'.”
Q: Do you have any upcoming shows scheduled or works in progress?
A: “This winter, The Ritz will be performing the hilarious 'Shrek- The Musical'. In the spring of 2023, we are going to sell out the whole month of May performing 'Mamma Mia'. Get your tickets early for that one!”
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Name: John Swarts '02, G'08
Areas of study when you attended the University of Scranton:
B.S. Elementary Education
M.S. Reading Education
Town of residence: Dickson City, PA
University printing professional performs in Pinocchio
The President’s Business Council (PBC) will present President’s Medals to Patricia A. Byrnes Clarke ’86, P'17,’19, global chief talent officer for Havas Group, and Thomas P. O’Brien ’86, P’19, senior managing director of SumRidge Partners, a Raymond James company, at its 21st Annual Award Dinner on Thursday, Sept. 29, at Gotham Hall in New York City.
“We are looking forward to being in person for this year’s PBC Dinner in late September as we celebrate our honorees, the University, and our students,” said Timothy J. Pryle ’89, executive director of the PBC. “We have two wonderful honorees who are excellent representatives of the PBC and who continue to have a tremendous impact on the University and our students.”
In presenting the President’s Medal, the University and the PBC recognize individuals who have achieved excellence in their fields, who have demonstrated extraordinary compassion for others, and who personify the University’s mission of Catholic and Jesuit excellence and service. Since its inaugural dinner in 2002, the PBC has generated nearly $20 million for the Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund.
To find out more about this year’s dinner, our honorees and to view the livestream on Sept. 29, visit the PBC Dinner link. To buy your table/tickets for this year’s dinner or to make your contribution, visit the RSVP link. For more information on this year's event or the PBC, please contact Tim Pryle at (570) 941-5837 or pbc@scranton.edu.
Gotham Hall
PBC Prepares For 21st Annual Award Dinner Sept. 29
Incoming first-year students of University of Scranton alumni gathered together with their families and the Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, Aug. 27 for the Class of 2026 Legacy Families Reception and Photo at Brennan Hall.
Visit University Advancement's Shutterfly Page to see the photographs from this year's reception.
Over the years, the Legacy Families Reception and Photo has become a University tradition. Prior to Convocation each year, incoming legacy students and their families gather together for a photograph with the University's president to mark the outset of their collegiate odyssey. Four years later, prior to commencement, the same families gather together with the University's president to mark the beginning of their journey as men and women for and with others beyond Scranton's borders.
University Holds Class of 2026 Legacy Families Reception
The Office of Equity and Diversity relies on the dedication and service of employees to assist with certain processes under the University’s Sexual Harassment and Sexual Harassment Policy and federal Title IX regulations. They are seeking volunteers to be trained in the following University process roles:
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Advisors to the Parties
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Decision-Making Panelists
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Appeal Panelists
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Informal Resolution Facilitators
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Investigators
Office of Equity and Diversity is looking for faculty and staff members willing to serve in these volunteer roles to assist in the process and resolve these matters.
Anyone interested must attend a brief training session. At the end of training, attendees are invited to indicate role(s) in which they would like to participate.
Training will be held via Zoom
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Sep. 21, 2:30 - 4:30 p.m.
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Sep. 27, 9 -11:00 a.m.
As the regulations require, training is necessary for employees who have previously served in some or all of these roles. Anyone who has served previously and wishes to continue participation, should register for training.
Interested employees, please register here. With any questions, contact OED at 570-941-6645 or diversity@scranton.edu.
Volunteers Needed for University Title IX Process
The University will host Family Weekend 2022, a celebration for current students and their families, Sept. 24 and 25.
The annual event gives families a firsthand look into the lives of their students, and the Family Weekend Planning Committee has once again assembled a fantastic array of Scrantastic activities that will foster fun and fellowship.
Saturday, September 24, 2022
9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Family Weekend Hospitality Center
A warm welcome awaits you at the Family Weekend Hospitality Center. Staff will be on hand to answer questions about the weekend and offer suggestions about the surrounding area.
The DeNaples Center, 1st Floor
Basket Raffle - 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (and Friday 9/23 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.)
Sponsored by The Center for Service and Social Justice, this annual raffle supports our students' experiential travel and service events.
The DeNaples Center, 1st Floor
10 a.m. Women's Rugby (opponent TBD)
Fitzpatrick Field
Men's Rugby (time/opponent TBD)
Fitzpatrick Field
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Food Truck Fare
Area food trucks will be parked along Linden Street for this lunch-on-your-own experience.
2Wayz One Passion Food Truck
Bella Rose Food Truck & Catering LLC
FonDippity
Manning's Mobile Ice Cream Shoppe
Big D's Curbside Crave
(Food trucks subject to change)
Commons Flag Terrace
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Student Group Performances
Scrantones (Men/Women for Octaves)
Royal Harmony (Men/Women for Octaves)
Liva Arts (Musical Theater)
Royal Expressions (Contemporary Dance)
Urban Beats
University of Scranton Cheer Team
University of Scranton Dance Team
Founder's Green
Noon - 7 p.m. Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library Book Sale
The Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library at The University of Scranton are sponsoring a book sale that will include used non-fiction and fiction hardcover and paperback books. The event takes place outside on the Monroe Avenue side of the Weinberg Memorial Library or inside the building in case of rain, with all proceeds benefiting The Weinberg Memorial Library Endowment.
Weinberg Memorial Library
1 p.m. Women's Volleyball vs. Rowan; vs. Messiah 5 p.m.
John Long Center (*Friday 9/23 vs. Franklin & Marshall 3 p.m.; Friday 9/23 vs. RIT 7 p.m.)
1 p.m. Women's Field Hockey vs. Catholic
Weiss Field
4 p.m. Family Weekend Mass
Join our community at Mass as we celebrate Scranton families coming together in fellowship. Families of all religious affiliations are welcome.
The William J. Byron, S.J. Recreation Complex
7:30 p.m. Family Weekend Concert
Joseph Boga and the Scranton Ramblers with an appearance by The University of Scranton Concert Choir
Houlihan-McLean Center (Visit this link for more information)
8:30 p.m. USPB After Dark: Family Weekend Edition
Join the University of Scranton Programming Board (USPB) as they transform the DeNaples Center into a family entertainment complex! Featuring multiple attractions, including a live, interactive game show, Scranton bingo, photo booths, and more, this is an exciting family event that is not to be missed. Sponsored by the USPB.
The DeNaples Center
Sunday, September 25, 2022
9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Brunch on Your Own
You will have the option to pay at the door or use your student's flex spending account. The cost of brunch is $10.52 per person.
The DeNaples Center, Fresh Food Company, 3rd Floor
Noon - 4 p.m. Hope Horn Art Gallery - "Time and Lace" - A history of The Scranton Lace Company
For over a century, the Scranton Lace Company was recognized for its quality products, innovative management, and skilled workforce. Guest-curated by University of Scranton graduate Roman Golebiowski, this show and catalog celebrate its history as represented in artifacts from the Lackawanna Historical Society and Anthracite Heritage Museum in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
For more information, contact the Family Weekend Planning Committee at 570-941-4222 or familyweekend@scranton.edu, or visit www.scranton.edu/familyweekend.
University To Host Family Weekend Sept. 24-25
Alumni and student golfers are invited to participate in an Alumni/Student Golf Outing Oct. 15 at Pine Hills Country Club, 140 S. Keyser Avenue, Taylor, PA.
The scramble golf tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Prizes will be awarded at a barbecue dinner at Pine Hills after the tournament concludes. To register, visit this link.
University To Hold Alumni/Student Golf Outing Oct. 15
This fall, the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project, a National Endowment for the Humanities-funded initiative of The University of Scranton and community partner organizations, continues. A full lineup of community programming centers on three project themes: “From the Industrial Revolution to Act 47 and Beyond,” “From ‘Immigrant’ to Citizen,” and “The Indigenous History of NEPA.”
Fall events begin with a focus on the area’s industrial heritage and how this continues to shape our region today. The first fall 2022 event, “The 1902 Anthracite Strike: Causes and Consequences, A 120th Anniversary Evaluation,” is a keynote lecture. It features anthracite historian and sociologist, Dr. Robert Wolensky, with respondent panelists, Dr. Melissa Meade and Mayor Paige Cognetti and discussion on Thursday, Sept. 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the Lackawanna County Courthouse. Registration is required at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/1902Strike
Industrial theme events continue will highlight the role of women in industry. “A Shop on Every Corner: Memories of the Garment Industry Film Screening & Discussion,” will feature historian Dr. Ken Wolensky and filmmaker Maureen McGuigan on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 7-8:30 p.m. at the historic Ritz Theater & Performing Arts Center. Registration required at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Garment2022
On Saturday, Oct. 15, “Weaving the Past into the Future: Scranton Lace Tour,” will tour the new Scranton Laceworks Village, considering its historical use by the Scranton Lace Company and its transformation into current residential housing. Resource speakers will include: Steve Friedman, University of Scranton History alumnus; Maria MacDonald, Executive Director of the Center for the Living City; and Donald Rinaldi, Builder & Developer, BEDA Construction. Event check-in begins at 1:30 p.m. with the tour from 2-3:00 p.m., at the Laceworks Village, 1315 Meylert Ave., Scranton, PA in collaboration with the Center for the Living City. Registration required at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LaceTour2022
The Hope Horn Gallery also features a connected exhibition “Time and Lace: A History of the Scranton Lace Company,” open now through Sept. 30, 2022. A Curator’s Lecture takes place on Friday, Sept. 16, in Brennan Hall 228, The University of Scranton, from 5 to 6:00 p.m., followed by a Public Reception in Hyland 407 from 6 to 8:00 p.m.
In October, the project begins its next theme, "From "Immigrant" to Citizen” on Tuesday, Oct. 25 with “All the Places We Come From: Stories, Food, & Community.” This event will be an evening of story-sharing around the theme of migration, featuring nationally-acclaimed writers Anna Badhken, Angie Cruz, Chinelo Okparanta, and Joseph O’Neill. The event will begin with appetizers and sweets from Scranton's multi-ethnic restaurants, and a story-exchange facilitated by the artist-driven international empathy building organization, Narrative 4. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and event from 6 - 7:30 p.m. in Shopland Hall, Scranton Cultural Center. Registration will open in late September. Please visit www.scranton.edu/scrantonstory for updates.
Additional theme events include a connected Hope Horn Gallery Exhibition, Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala, Photographs by Byron Maldonado, from Oct. 7 - Nov. 18. On Friday, Oct. 7 there will be a First Friday Scranton opening, an Artist’s Lecture from 5 - 6 p.m. in Brennan 228, The University of Scranton and Public Reception to follow from 6 – 8 p.m. in Hyland Hall 407, The University of Scranton. On Dec. 5 at 5 p.m., a roundtable “The Journey from ‘Immigrant’ to Citizen” will feature local resource speakers from a range of backgrounds, in collaboration with the Schemel Forum in Brennan Hall, The University of Scranton.
In November, the project will return to the theme of “Indigenous History of NEPA” with “Forced Removal of the Lenape People: History and Homecoming.” The keynote talk will feature Curtis Zunigha, enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians in Oklahoma and co-director and co-founder of the Lenape Center in New York. Now living and working in Lenapehoking, the Lenape ancestral homeland, Zunigha will share his experience and mission to heal the wounds of forced removal and colonization and his desire is to restore the circle of friendship, respect, and shared occupancy. This special event will take place on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. in The DeNaples Center Ballroom at The University of Scranton.
In December, the fall events will conclude with a roundtable discussion, “The Journey from ‘Immigrant’ to Citizen,” Dec. 5, 5 p.m., Brennan Hall, University of Scranton Campus, featuring local resource speakers from a range of backgrounds, in collaboration with The University of Scranton's Schemel Forum.
For more information and to view upcoming events and recordings of past events, please visit www.scranton.edu/scrantonstory.
Follow the Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story project on social media at: Facebook and Instagram @ourscrantonstory and on Twitter at @scrantonstory
Questions? Contact community@scranton.edu or call 570-941-4419.
Full Lineup of Scranton’s Story Fall Events Announced
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Paul Majkut G’66, San Diego, California, retired in 2020 after a career spent teaching undergraduate and graduate literature and philosophy. During that time, he was also an active journalist, both within the U.S. and abroad. He has been awarded five Fulbright Senior Specialist and Scholar grants (Argentina, Finland, Germany, Mexico, Estonia), and two National Endowment for the Humanities awards (Oxford, Cambridge). He is a Reader of Medieval Manuscripts and Rare Books at the Bodleian Library (Oxford), Cambridge University Library, and The Huntington Library. He has received numerous journalism awards for this writing (the San Diego Press Club, the Los Angeles Press Club, the Southern California Press Club, the Society of Professional Journalists, and the National Conference of Christians and Jews). In 1998, he founded the Society for Phenomenology and Media. He has lectured as a visiting professor widely in universities in the United States as well as internationally. Since retiring, he was asked by university colleagues abroad to teach classes online. Refusing pay, he decided to teach a course at the University of Jos, Nigeria, an impoverished university beset by religious violence.
Jim Moran ’66, Philadelphia, recently published his essay, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and his Struggle with Polio, on line at FDRRESEARCH.COM.
Thomas F. McNevin, Ph.D. ’74, G’77, Yardley, retired last year after 36 years as a research scientist with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, where he worked on chemical and radiological hazardous site remediations, air pollution and energy issues.
Kevin Ball ’77, Levittown, retired from teaching after 46 years at Archbishop Ryan High School. In addition to teaching math and engineering, he spent 40-plus years as Technology Coordinator, coached soccer for more than 20 years and coached hockey for 40 years.
Howard F. Mulligan ’85, New York, New York, joined Greenspoon and Marder as a partner. Mulligan focuses his practice on the intersecting disciplines of corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, structured finance, fund information, commercial real estate, securities law, capital markets and business restructuring.
Jennifer Lawrence Janofsky, Ph.D. ’95, Glen Ridge, New Jersey, a public historian at Rowan University and the director of Red Bank Battlefield Park in National Park, New Jersey, led a series of four public digs, in the summer of 2022 at the park, which is the site of a critical 1777 Revolutionary War between the Hessians and the American fighting force. The remains of as many as 13 individuals, believed to be Hessian soldiers, were discovered. This discovery was a surprise. No maps from the period showed there would be human remains at the site.
Patrick J. Cummings ’07, Havertown, was elected partner at Weber Gallagher on August 1, 2022.
Cecilia Baress ’08, Old Forge, joined the Department of Communication and Media at The University of Scranton as an adjunct faculty member. The former managing editor and editor-in-chief of The Aquinas is also an adviser to the student news publication.
Matthew W. Smeltzer ’12, North Wales, has joined STV, a leader in engineering, architectural, planning and program and construction management services as corporate controller. In this role, Smeltzer will report directly to STV’s chief financial officer and will be responsible for STV’s accounting, reporting and financial audits.
MARRIAGES
Allison Carbone ’12 to Andrew Freer
James Ranslow '13 to Anali Meza
Tim Janes '15 to Kellie Reidinger
Bridget Gallaher ’16 to James Lolli ’14, G’17
Christopher Vatter ’17 to Meghan Miller ’17
BIRTHS
A daughter, Michelle Agnes, to Dan ’07 and Dawn Leavy Neenan ’10, Staten Island, New York
A daughter, Emaline Jamie, to Michael ’11 and Elizabeth Lukowicz Sunkel ’11, Fieldsboro, New Jersey
A son, Logan Charles, to James ’14, DPT '17 and Bridget Gallaher Lolli ’16, Havertown
DEATHS
Irwin Schneider ’52, Fleetville
John E. McCawley ’60, Endwell
Col. James W. Patterson, USA, Ret. ’63, Roaring Brook Township
John J. Grace ’65, Lakewood, Colorado
Terrence P. Zealand, Ed.D. ’72, Howell, New Jersey
Melissa Conway Luther, Ph.D. ’76, Carlsbad, California
George R. Huhn ’83, Venice, Florida
David J. Lauriha ’88, Archbald
FRIENDS' DEATHS
Elizabeth Bush Schmidt, sister of Peter Bush ’79
Alumni Class Notes, September 2022
All faculty, staff and students are invited to join the opening Global Insights program for 2022-23, featuring Magali Ferrer, Fulbright scholar and graduate teaching assistant of Spanish 101. She will present on her home country, Argentina, Tuesday, Sep. 20, 2022 at 11:30 a.m. in the Rose Room, Brennan 509. Registration is required. Click here to register.
“Argentina is located in the south end of the (South) American continent,” said Ferrer. “Its capital city is Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires. There's a population of about 45,801,000, and the official money is the peso. The name of the country makes reference to the richness of the land. What defines the country is its huge diversity in terms of inhabitants, as well as its geography. There are unlimited activities, from glacier excursions to scenic hikes, to breathtaking natural wonders.”
Ferrer said Argentina's many unique offerings are internationally recognized. “The Iguazú Falls…were recently voted one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature."
"Mendoza, the city where I live, is that heart of Argentina's wine industry, and it is surrounded by the highest mountain in America, which is the Aconcagua.” The Zuccardi Valle de Uco winery, located in Mendoza, has been voted best winery in the world for three consecutive years.
Visitors will enjoy Argentina because the people are friendly and helpful, and the lifestyle is free of rules. Free health care and education for all is accessible to both citizens and visitors.
Argentinian culture is very family focused. “Family and friends get together to celebrate anything happening, even small things." Ferrer said because of the family-centered culture “You will never, ever be alone.”
Ferrer’s talk will feature photos of Argentina’s natural wonders, food, folklore, music and dance.
This program is being offered by the Office of Global Education, the Cultural Centers, Residence Life and the Office of Equity and Diversity. For more information, please contact international@scranton.edu or 570-941-4841.
Global Insights: Fulbright Scholar presents Argentina
The Royal Experience Summer Internship Program provided six University of Scranton students, selected from a competitive pool, a stipend of up to $4,000 to support their participation in a meaningful unpaid internship for the summer of 2022. The program was started in 2016 through funding by the University’s Parents’ Executive Council and the donations of alumni and friends of the University.
Students receiving support write about their internship experiences in a blog published on the University’s Gerard R. Roche Center for Career Development webpage.
The following is a list of students who participated in the 2022 Royal Experience Summer Internship program.
Sydney Gero ’23, a criminal justice major from Somerset, New Jersey, participated in the New Jersey State Parole Board (NJSPB) Internship Program at the Community Programs Division of NJSPB in Trenton, New Jersey.
Nicole Gomber ’23, a counseling and human services major from New Providence, New Jersey, interned at Good Grief in Morristown, New Jersey.
Julia Loury ’23, an entrepreneurship major from Scranton, was the coordinating project officer and operations assistant intern at Aardvark Amusements in Sayreville, New Jersey.
Clare Maguire ’23, a criminal justice major from Oreland, participated in the 2022 Summer Internship Program at the Montgomery County Detective Bureau in Norristown.
Simal Sami ’24, an information technology major from Jessup, was an intern for The University of Scranton’s IT Department.
Michael Walton ’23, a marketing major from Gloucester City, New Jersey, was a public relations and marketing intern for The Borgen Project, Tacoma, Washington.
Royal Experience Program Summer Interns 2022
University of Scranton alumnus and former University trustee, Rev. James F. Duffy, S.J., M.D., will serve as the new superior for the Scranton Jesuit Community. His position became effective July 31. He replaced Rev. Herbert B. Keller, S.J., who stepped down from that position, which he has held since 2015.
A 1988 graduate of The University of Scranton, Father Duffy served as a trustee at his alma mater from 2007 to 2016. He received the University’s Frank J. O'Hara Distinguished Alumni award in 2013, which is the highest award bestowed jointly by the University and our Alumni Society.
A board-certified internist, Father Duffy earned his medical degree from Georgetown University in 1992. He served as an undersea medical officer for the U.S. Navy in Sardegna, Italy, onboard the USS Simon Lake (AS-33), from 1993-1996. When he returned to the U.S. after four years of service, he entered the Society of Jesus as a novice in 1996 and was first missioned to complete his residency training in Internal Medicine at Georgetown University Hospital from 1998-2000. During his philosophy studies, he earned his master’s in health care ethics from Loyola University of Chicago and during his theological studies, he completed his M.Div. from the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley. Following ordination in 2006, Father Duffy served as associate cean of clinical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine from 2006 to 2016, before joining the Saint Louis University School of Medicine in 2017 in the same role.
Consistent with the Universal Apostolic Preferences, Father Duffy has continued to practice in Spanish-speaking, underserved medical clinics throughout his Jesuit formation and medical career.
Scranton Jesuit Community New Superior is Alumnus
The Princeton Review selected The University of Scranton once again among the best colleges in the nation. Scranton is among just 14 percent of schools listed in the 2023 edition of the “Best 388 Colleges” guidebook, marking the 21st consecutive year the University was selected and recommended by The Princeton Review as one of the top colleges in the country.
In addition, for the sixth year, The Princeton Review ranked Scranton among the nation’s “Best Science Lab Facilities” (No. 7) and “Best Campus Food” (No. 25). Scranton also ranked among the “Most Religious Students” (No. 24) in the latest edition of the guidebook.
The Princeton Review wrote “some students refer to The University of Scranton as ‘Disney World in PA’ because ‘everyone is so friendly and helpful,’” in its profile of Scranton, which also included boasts about the University’s accessible and caring faculty, outstanding facilities, a network of supportive alumni, and a Jesuit mission and curriculum firmly grounded in ethics.
“We salute The University of Scranton for its outstanding academics, and its many other impressive offerings. We are delighted to recommend it as an ideal choice for students searching for their ‘best fit’ college,” said Rob Franek, The Princeton Review’s editor –in-chief and lead author of “The Best 388 Colleges,” in a news release.
The Princeton Review does not include an overall ranking of the schools selected as the best in the country, however they do publish rankings of schools in 50 categories based on results of their surveys of 160,000 students at the 388 colleges included in the book. Information from the surveys is also used in the profiles included about each school in the publication.
In addition to The Princeton Review, U.S. News has ranked Scranton among the top 10 “Best Regional Universities in the North” for 28 consecutive years, placing the University No. 5 among the “Best Regional Universities in the North” its 2022 edition of the “Best Colleges” guidebook.
Scranton Picked Among Best Colleges in Nation
August
View August Listing Page
The University of Scranton welcomed the most diverse class in the history of the school last weekend with 285 members of its class of 2026 identifying as a student of color, representing nearly 27 percent of the incoming class. Scranton also welcomed its largest degree seeking, graduate international student cohort in the last 15 years, with more than 60 new graduate degree-seeking international students starting this fall.
Shown above are Shania Hemingway (left), a chemistry major, and her twin sister Selina, a biology major, both from Alburtis and in the pre-med program, arrived on campus to participate in the Royals of Color Kickoff.
Read more about the Royals of Color Kickoff (ROCK), here.
Read more about the first-year class, here.
See more photos from Fall Welcome Weekend, here.
Forty-two members of The University of Scranton’s Class of 2026 arrived on campus on Aug. 22 to participate in FIRST (Freshmen Involved in Reflective Service Together), a reflective service immersion program at Scranton. Students volunteered with Neighborworks, the Belleview Center, Telespond and Friends of the Poor. FOX-56 News interviewed students participating in FIRST at the Friends of the Poor warehouse in south Scranton.
Shown, Blake Schultz, an accounting major from Dunmore, was among the members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2026 who participated in FIRST. Here, Schultz is pictured playing catch with children at the Belleview Center in West Scranton.
Read more about the FIRST members of Class of 2026 to arrive, here
“I hope that by talking about how this war destroyed villages and towns, and killed, hurt and damaged the lives of so many people, maybe in the future, people will be more reasonable and peaceful and others will not have to go through what we experienced,” said Serhii Kuzmin Jr.
Eighteen-year-old Serhii, from Kharkiv, Ukraine, arrives on the campus of The University of Scranton as a member of the Jesuit school’s class of 2026. He will major in computer science.
Serhii completed his high school studies in Ukraine in 2021 and spent a gap year searching for a school in the United States to fulfill his dream of attending college in America. He found a fit to cultivate his love of philosophy grounded within a Catholic tradition at The University of Scranton.
Then, he was awakened by loud noises in the early morning hours of February 24. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine had begun and everything else stopped.
Learn more about how Serhii renewed his plans to pursue his dream of attending college in the United States, here.
Shown, Center for Student Engagement Assistant Director Casey Steiner gives complimentary T-shirts to students attending the event.
Members of Class of 2026 Join Royal Community
The University of Scranton held a capping ceremony for members of its 2024 graduate nurse anesthetist program. The students completed the rigorous first-year academic course requirements of the three-year program and now will begin the clinical rotation portion of the master’s degree program.
Nurse anesthetist students capped at the ceremony were:
Deborah Antwih, Towson, Maryland;
Toni Baran, Sugarloaf;
William Bianco, Long Beach, New York;
Gabriel Bigatel, Old Forge;
Graham Bigsby, Endwell, New York;
Kevin Constantinescu, Scranton;
Aaron Crowell, Plains
Vincent David, Scranton;
Kelsey Davis, Bloomsburg;
Elijah Emmons, Chattanooga, Tennessee;
Rolando Flores, Sunnyside, New York;
Umid Iskhakov, Brooklyn, New York;
Starr Jackson, Staten Island, New York;
Boris Lukatskiy, Rego Park, New York;
Raza Mian, Staten Island, New York;
Calvin Ngo, Brooklyn, New York;
Tess Nidetch, Sayre;
Adam Nugdalla, Coram, New York;
Isaac Osei-Wusu, Newark, New Jersey;
Nelson Ramos, New York, New York;
Erik Steffens, Scranton;
Samantha Valle, Holbrook, New York;
Meghan Visalli, Scranton;
Jeff Yalun, Congers, New York.
Future Nurse Anesthetists to Begin Clinical Rotations
The University of Scranton’s Schemel Forum will offer three stimulating evening courses as part of its fall programming.
Taught by University faculty members, the courses will be presented in six weekly sessions from 6 to 7:15 p.m. in the Weinberg Memorial Library. The courses are free for University students, faculty, staff and Schemel Forum members. For non-members, the fee is $75 per individual and $125 per couple.
Billie Tadros, Ph.D., assistant professor of English and theatre, will present “Crossing the Line(s): Reading and Writing Contemporary Poetry” on Monday evenings Sept. 19 and 26 and Oct. 3, 17, 24 and 31.
During the sessions, Tadros will help students develop a vocabulary for the shared practice of close-reading forms of poetry, from the traditional (e.g., the sonnet, the villanelle, the sestina, the pantoum) to the newer forms invented by living poets (e.g., the Golden Shovel, the duplex, the pecha kucha).
Participants will be invited (though not required) to write their own poems, and there will be time for sharing and discussion during each course meeting.
“I aim to provide participants with the confidence and the vocabulary to read and to talk about contemporary poems,” Tadros said. “I’ll invite participants to experiment with poetry themselves and to consider what poetry can do for them in their own lives as readers and writers. In a 1994 interview, award-winning poet Adrienne Rich described poetry as ‘a portable art,’ saying that ‘it travels.’ In my course, I hope to provide participants with something portable, both something they can carry with them and something to help carry them forward.”
Roy Domenico, Ph.D., professor of history, will present “What is Fascism?” on Wednesday evenings Sept. 21 and 28 and Oct. 5, 12, 19 and 26.
For decades, historians have struggled to define fascism – has the word become so unwieldy that it has lost its meaning, or does it still convey something that informs us about our world? With those questions in mind, Domenico will use the course to examine fascism, or something that resembles it, starting with its French and Italian roots and its Nazi variations, and concluding with the global populist and mass-surveillance phenomena.
“Has there ever been a clear definition of fascism?” Domenico said. “We'll explore the various angles of fascism, something that went away in 1945 ... or not?”
Stephen Whittaker, Ph.D., professor in the University’s Department of English and Theatre, will present “How a Masterpiece of Medieval Irish Art Bridged the Classical & Christian Worlds” on Tuesday evenings Oct. 4, 11, 18 and 25 and Nov. 1 and 8.
In this look at the origins and legacy of the Monogram Page of “The Book of Kells,” commonly known as “the chief relic of the Western world,” Whittaker will examine how an Irish treasure from the year 800 unified science, religion and art.
“During the golden age of classical Greece, Plato articulated a unity of scientific, theological and artistic perspectives. This coherence of ways of thinking about human experience lay obscured for a millennium, but it surfaced again in the Chi Rho page of ‘The Book of Kells,’” Whittaker said. “This medieval Irish masterpiece embodies and transmits to us a vision of the deep unity of sacred, natural and artistic modes of human experience.”
To register for the courses, contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816 or kym.fetsko@scranton.edu. Or, to pay online, visit: www.scranton.edu/schemelforum. For more information on Schemel Forum programs and memberships, contact Sondra Myers, Schemel Forum director, at 570-941-4089 or sondra.myers@scranton.edu.
Additional Schemel Forum events scheduled for the fall semester include luncheon seminars collaborative events and a bus trip. Myers talks about the fall programming in an interview with Erika Funke for WVIA. The full schedule events can be found on the Schemel Forum’s webpage.
Professors Set to Teach Schemel Forum Courses
The Mother Daughter Retreat will take place Saturday, Oct. 8 to Sunday, Oct. 9 at the University’s Chapman Lake Retreat Center. Sign-ups will take place through Sept. 23.
Mothers and daughters will have the chance to:
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enjoy part of Fall Break relaxing overnight at Chapman Lake,
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spend quality time with one another, and
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pray and reflect with other Scranton moms and daughters.
The cost of the retreat is $60 per mother/daughter pair, and includes overnight accommodations (mother and daughter share a room with a private bathroom), and all meals and materials. After the retreat, students will still have the Monday and Tuesday of Fall Break free to go home. Daughters who are current students can register with their mom in Royal Sync: https://cglink.me/2rM/s38For more information contact amy.hoegen@scranton.edu
Mother Daughter Retreat Sign-ups Through Sept. 23
Phi Sigma Tau, the Philosophy honor society, will host a Manning's Ice Cream gift certificate fundraiser sale through September 2.
Orders may be placed in LSC 561 from Wednesday, August 31 through September 2 or by emailing amy.black@scranton.edu. Payment via cash, check (Payable to Phi Sigma Tau) or Royal Card, is due with each order.
Prices are as follows: 1/2 gallon tubs- $7; ice cream pies $15; 8" ice cream cakes $20. Gift certificates will be delivered the week of September 5 through 9, and are redeemable at any time, and at any Manning's location.
Phi Sigma Tau ice cream fundraiser runs through Sept. 2
The University of Scranton Center for Health Education & Wellness (CHEW) promotes wellness in mind, body and spirit. CHEW is dedicated to providing high quality, evidence-based programs and resources designed to support the wellness journey. CHEW'S Weekly Wellness Classes for Fall 2022 are available for employees, faculty, and students.
Weekly Wellness Classes- Fall Semester 2022
Drop-in classes are free to students, faculty and staff.
Monday:
Mindfulness Meditation
5 p.m.-5:30 p.m.
305 Weinberg Memorial Library
Monday:
*Light Weight & Abs
5 p.m.-5:50 p.m.
Royals Room, Byron Center
*Employees Only
Tuesday:
POUND
5 p.m.-5:45 p.m.
Royals Room, Byron Center
Wednesday:
Lunchtime Yoga Flow
12:15 p.m.-12:45 p.m.
Royals Room, Byron Center
Wednesday:
*Light Weight & Abs
5 - 5:50 p.m.
Royals Room, Byron Cent er
*Employees Only
Thursdays:
Energizing Yoga
5 p.m.-5:45 p.m.
Royals Room, Byron Center
Thursdays:
*Drop-in Pickleball
12 p.m.-1 p.m.
Royals Room, Byron Center
*Employees Only
Center for Health Education And Wellness Announces Fall Schedule
The 12th Annual Downtown Scavenger Hunt will take place from Friday, Sept. 2 - Saturday, Sept. 3. University students can register for this annual event to explore the downtown Scranton area to learn more about our business community, historical landmarks and monuments, creative murals, and unique places. University of Scranton students can register in Royal Sync at https://cglink.me/2rM/s33
12th Annual Downtown Scavenger Hunt Sept. 2 to 3
Mailing Services staff are hard at work processing your packages and mail at our new location at 315 Jefferson Avenue.
As a reminder, here’s how to address your incoming mail and packages:
Your Name
The University of Scranton
315 Jefferson Ave – RMB# (Use your existing University box number as your RMB#)
Scranton, PA 18510
Please note: RMB means “Royal Mail Box” and is not a PO box.
Fall Semester Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 10, and Saturday, Sept. 17: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Other Saturdays during the fall semester: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
For your convenience:
Hand trucks are available to borrow for larger items.There are two 15-minute loading area parking spots available in front of the building.
For additional information or questions, please call (570) 941-4282.
Updates on Student Mail
The University of Scranton granted promotions and/or tenure to 11 faculty members effective at the start of the 2022-23 academic year.
Three faculty members have been promoted to professor: Michael Jenkins, Ph.D., sociology, criminal justice and criminology; Marc Seid, Ph.D., biology; and Maria Squire, Ph.D., biology.
Three faculty members were named associate professor: Tiffany Bordonada, Ph.D., counseling and human services; Chris Howey, Ph.D., biology; and Brian Snee, Ph.D., communication and media.
Five faculty members were granted tenure: Julie Nastasi, O.T.D., Sc.D., associate professor of occupational therapy; Ismail Onat, Ph.D., associate professor of sociology, criminal justice and criminology; John Ruddy, D.P.S., associate professor of economics and finance; Alexander Rudniy, Ph.D., assistant professor computer science; and Andrew Venezia, Ph.D., associate professor of health and human performance.
Dr. Jenkins, chair of the Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice and Criminology; received his bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton, and his master’s degree and doctorate from the State University of New Jersey, Rutgers. He has worked at the University since 2013.
Dr. Seid received his bachelor’s degrees and master’s degree from Brigham Young University. He received his doctorate from Boston University. He has worked at the University since 2010.
Dr. Squire, who is currently serving as the University’s interim associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, received her bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton and her master’s degree and doctorate from Stony Brook University. She has worked for the University since 2005.
Dr. Bordonada received her bachelor’s degree from Fairmont State University and her master’s degrees from West Virginia University. She received her doctorate from the University of South Carolina. She has worked for the University since 2017.
Dr. Howey received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware and his master’s degree the University of Central Arkansas. He received his doctorate from Ohio University. He has worked for the University since 2017.
Dr. Snee received his bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton and his master’s degree and doctorate from Pennsylvaina State University. He has worked for the University since 2020.
Dr. Nastasi, director of low vision therapy for the Leahy Community Health and Family Center, received her bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton, her master’s degree from Tufts University and doctorate degrees from the Boston University and Towson University. She has worked at the University since 2011.
Dr. Onat, chief analyst for the Center for the Analysis and Prevention of Crime, received his bachelor’s degree from the Turkish National Police Academy and his master’s degree and doctorate from the State University of New Jersey, Rutgers. He has worked at the University since 2016.
Dr. Ruddy received his bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton, his master’s degree from George Washington University and his doctorate from Pace University. He has worked at the University since 2013.
Dr. Rudniy received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Kharkiv National University of Radioelectronics in Ukraine. He received his doctorate from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He has worked for the University since 2018.
Dr. Venezia received his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Bloomsburg University and his doctorate from the University of Maryland. He has worked at the University since 2016.
University Announces Faculty Promotions
The Offices of the Provost, Human Resources and Equity and Diversity offer a faculty and staff book club. Committed to enhancing an inclusive campus environment, the club book will match the first-year seminar Royal Read, "On Juneteenth" by Pulitzer Prize winner and New York Times best-selling author, Annette Gordon-Reed.
This book club is designed to create a space for thoughtful dialogue. Registering for the book club signifies an agreement to participate in the group conversation at the luncheon meeting. Books will be available the second week of September at no cost for staff and faculty participants. Register here to get a book and attend the luncheon. Seating is limited.
The book club meeting will be held Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 12 p.m. in DeNaples 405. A light lunch will be provided.
In addition to the meeting, faculty and staff are encouraged join the in-person lecture given by the author on Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the Byron Recreational Center, which is geared toward first-year students.
Annette Gordon-Reed is the Carl M. Loeb University Professor at Harvard. Gordon-Reed won 16 book prizes, including the Pulitzer Prize in History in 2009 and the National Book Award in 2008, for "The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family" (W.W. Norton, 2008).
In addition to articles and reviews, her other works include "Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings: An American Controversy" (UVA Press, 1997), "Vernon Can Read! A Memoir, a collaboration with Vernon Jordan" (PublicAffairs, 2001), "Race on Trial: Law and Justice in American History" (Oxford University Press, 2002), a volume of essays that she edited, "Andrew Johnson" (Times Books/Henry Holt, 2010) and, with Peter S. Onuf, “'Most Blessed of the Patriarchs': Thomas Jefferson and the Empire of the Imagination" (Liveright Publishing, 2016). Her most recent book is "On Juneteenth" (Liveright Publishing, 2021). Gordon-Reed was the Vyvyan Harmsworth Visiting Professor of American History at the University of Oxford (Queens College) 2014-2015.
Between 2010 and 2015, she was the Carol K. Pforzheimer Professor at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University. She was the 2018-2019 President of the Society for Historians of the Early American Republic. Currently, she serves as President of the Ames Foundation. A selected list of her honors includes a fellowship from the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Center for Scholars and Writers at the New York Public Library, a Guggenheim Fellowship in the humanities, a MacArthur Fellowship, the National Humanities Medal, the National Book Award, the Frederick Douglass Book Prize, the George Washington Book Prize, and the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award.
Gordon-Reed served as a member of the Board of Trustees of Dartmouth College from 2010 to 2018. She was elected a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2011 and was a member of the Academy’s Commission on the Humanities and Social Sciences. In 2019, she was elected as a member of the American Philosophical Society.
Biography source: Harvard Law School website - https://hls.harvard.edu/faculty/directory/10329/Gordon-Reed
Faculty and Staff Book Club Features Pulitzer Prize winner
More than twenty members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2022 arrived on campus Aug. 25 to participate in the Royals of Color Kickoff (ROCK). Now in its second year, ROCK was developed based on feedback from students of color at Scranton. The program allows students meet each other, meet returning students who will serve as mentors, tour downtown Scranton and learn more about University resources prior to Fall Welcome programming that began on Aug. 27 when their classmates arrived on campus.
The program included a meet and greet with Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J. president of The University of Scranton, a welcome from Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., interim provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at the University, a tour of downtown Scranton and a returning student panel discussion, among other events.
University students participating in the panel discussion were: Nickalia Beckford, a psychology major from Mount Vernon, New York; Zitha Igbokwe, an accounting major from Gauteng, South Africa; Serena Martin, a political science major from Bronx, New York; Ayana McCalla, a sociology major from North Baldwin, New York; Ashley Moronta, a forensic chemistry major from Hazleton; Anthony Torres, a biochemistry major in the premed program from New Milford; Michael Trought, a kinesiology major from New Rochelle, New York; and Luis Vasquez, a counseling and human services major from Hazleton.
The University of Scranton welcomed one of its largest and the most diverse class in the history of the school the weekend of Aug. 27. Two-hundred and eighty-five members of its class of 2026 identified as a student of color, which represents nearly 27 percent of the incoming class of more than 1,060.
Photos of students participating in ROCK and fall welcome activities, can be seen on the University’s Flickr page.
Fall semester classes on campus began Monday, Aug. 29.
$content.getChild('content').textValueClass of 2026 Students ROCK
Forty-two members of The University of Scranton’s Class of 2026 arrived on campus on Aug. 22 to participate in FIRST (Freshmen Involved in Reflective Service Together), a reflective service immersion program at Scranton.
The students spent the week volunteering at area nonprofit organizations during the day and reflecting on their service experiences and getting to know each other in the evenings spent at the University’s Conference and Retreat Center at Chapman Lake.
Students volunteered with Neighborworks, the Belleview Center, Telespond and Friends of the Poor. FOX-56 News interviewed students participating in FIRST at the Friends of the Poor warehouse in south Scranton.
FIRST Members of Class of 2026 Arrive
Performance Music at The University of Scranton will kick off its fall season Friday, Sept. 2, with a concert by the Matt Marantz Quartet. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
According to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga, Marantz is a friend and longtime colleague of Scranton’s new Co-Director of Performance Music Phil Kuehn.
A Texas native, Marantz grew up in a musical family and, during the early years of his saxophone studies, became an admirer of the music of Charlie Parker, Phil Woods and Cannonball Adderly.
While a student at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Dallas, Marantz nurtured his love of playing in different types of ensembles under the tutelage of his father and then-director of the jazz bands, Bart Marantz. There, he also learned about the jazz greats who served as his musical foundation, among them Keith Jarrett, John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins. Some of Marantz:s peers at the school, most notably pianists Sam Harris and Frank LoCrasto, additionally had a big impact on his playing and composing.
In 2004, Marantz moved to New York City, beginning a musical journey that has taken him as far away as the Middle East, Europe and Asia for tours. Along the way, he has had the chance to perform live with Herbie Hancock, Michael Bublé, Branford Marsalis, Terence Blanchard and Jason Moran. His 2010 album, “Offering,” received three and a half stars in Downbeat, while his self-released title “Aura” is available on Bandcamp.
Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for information regarding venue requirements for audiences, as policies regarding campus health and safety may change throughout the season.
For further information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more info on Marantz, visit mattmarantz.com.
Matt Marantz Quartet to Perform Sept. 2
The University of Scranton will welcome the most diverse class in the history of the school this weekend with 285 members of its class of 2026 identifying as a student of color, representing nearly 27 percent of the incoming class. Scranton will also welcome its largest degree seeking, graduate international student cohort in the last 15 years, with more than 60 new graduate degree-seeking international students starting this fall.
Incoming University students include more than 1,060 members of its undergraduate class of 2026, which is one of the largest in Scranton’s history, in addition to nearly 50 transfer students and nearly 275 graduate students, both on-campus and online.
The University’s undergraduate class of 2026, selected from a pool of more than 9,525 applicants, is the most diverse in its history, with nearly 27 percent of incoming students identifying as a person of color. More than 30 percent of the incoming class identify as first generation college students. The class represents more than 500 high schools, has an average SAT score of 1,240 and includes seven valedictorians and eight salutatorians. Members of the class of 2026 represent five countries, including Ukraine, and 14 states, including Delaware, Georgia, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Texas. Nearly 25 percent of the class is from Northeast Pennsylvania. The most common majors chosen by members of the incoming class are nursing, biology, occupational therapy, kinesiology, business administration and psychology.
The class of 2026 also includes 74 legacy children whose parents are University of Scranton alumni.
In addition to the undergraduate class of 2026, the University’s incoming graduate students represent several states and foreign countries, including the Czech Republic, India, Ethiopia, Ghana, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and South Korea.
The University’s Fall Welcome events on August 27 and 28 include a Mass, a class legacy reception and photo, residence hall and commuter meetings and other events and activities. The University will display a special tribute to returning students on its Class of 2020 Gateway, which will run on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.
Photos of fall welcome activities, as well as images from students participating in FIRST (Freshmen Involved in Reflective Service Together) and ROCK (Royals of Color Kickoff) can be seen on the University’s Flickr page.
Fall semester classes on campus begin Monday, Aug. 29.
Forty-two members of The University of Scranton’s Class of 2026 arrived on Aug. 22 to participate in FIRST (Freshmen Involved in Reflective Service Together), a reflective service immersion program at Scranton.
Scranton Welcomes Diverse Class of 2026
With extensive experience in both instrumental and choral music, Kuehn joins Scranton’s talented, enthusiastic and deeply-dedicated conductor and director Cheryl Y. Boga, founder of Performance Music at The University of Scranton in leading all musical, educational and administrative aspects of programs. Shared responsibilities include conducting, rehearsing, teaching student ensembles, and producing and directing the Guest Artist Series, World Premiere Series, Nelhybel Collection and educational outreach events such as masterclasses and clinics. Performance Music programming is also supported by Janelle Decker, assistant director and percussion coordinator.
Boga and Kuehn have known each other for almost a decade (having been introduced by Joseph Boga who is Boga’s son and Kuehn’s friend and colleague). They are very much looking forward to working together to serve Scranton students and their audiences.
Kuehn comes to Scranton from Snow College in Utah, where he served as a tenured associate professor of music and director of jazz studies. He studied with Dwayne Dolphin and Jeff Mangone in Pittsburgh before attending The Juilliard School where he studied with Ben Wolfe and David Grossman for his Bachelor of Music degree, and with Ron Carter for his Master of Music degree. A native of western Pennsylvania, Kuehn hails from a family of musician/educators and is no stranger to Scranton, having performed on campus several times with various guest artist ensembles.
During his impressive career, Kuehn has performed, recorded, broadcasted and/or toured with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Tony Bennett, Jonathan Batiste, Branford Marsalis, Khristian Dentley of Take 6, Cyrille Aimee, Randy Brecker, Veronica Swift, Anthony Hamilton, Dr. Billy Taylor, Roy Hargrove, Kurt Whalum, Emmett Cohen, The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Kyle Athayde Dance Party and many others. Formerly the regular bassist for Jonathan Batiste’s groups, including the “Stay Human” band, Kuehn has made several guest appearances on the Late Show with Steven Colbert.
Five of Kuehn’s arrangements for strings and choir appear on “Christmas with Jon Batiste.” Those arrangements have been featured on CBS, and the album placed No. 3 on the Billboard Jazz chart and No. 1 on the Heatseeker’s chart.
Kuehn’s bass playing was featured on Disney/Pixar’s Grammy/Oscar/Golden Globe-winning movie “Soul,” the soundtrack of which won a Grammy for Best Soundtrack, and he also recorded on Batiste’s Grammy-nominated album “Anatomy of Angels - Live at the Village Vanguard.” He has appeared on ABC’s “The View” with Tony Bennett, at the White House with Dr. Billy Taylor, with Anthony Hamilton at the Sundance Film Festival, and collaborated with Quincy Jones on an extensive arrangement of “Ode to Joy” for the Beethoven Orchester Bonn’s performance in Germany for Beethoven’s 250th Anniversary.
Kuehn completed a 24-song transcription portfolio of pre-1960 songs for Harry Connick, Jr. His research is featured in “Teaching Music Through Performance in Jazz, Vol. 2,” compiled by Ronald Carter and Richard Miles. He also wrote a teacher resource guide on Duke Ellington’s Sepia Panorama, served as a clinician with Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington Program, as director of the Snow College Jazz Summit and Snow College Summer Jazz Workshop, as guest conductor for music education festival ensembles including local, regional and All-State ensembles, and as vice president of the Jazz Education Network - Utah Chapter.
Philip Kuehn Joins Performance Music at Scranton
For a second consecutive year, students in the Future Business Leaders of America Collegiate program earned top awards, and qualified at state and national levels to represent the University of Scranton.
Twelve students competed at the 2022 Pennsylvania State Leadership Conference, hosted virtually in April. Eleven qualified for the 2022 National Leadership Conference, and four attended June 24-27 in Chicago, Illinois.
“Though only a few years old, the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) program at the University of Scranton is growing in membership and becoming quite successful on both the state and national levels. FBLA provides students with many opportunities that will help them transition into successful professionals,” said Dr. David Mahalak, Faculty Specialist, Operations & Analytics, who received the Advisor of the Year Award for Pennsylvania.
This is the third year of the Future Business Leaders of America college chapter at Scranton
On the state level, 11 national qualifiers earned five 1st place, five 2nd place and two 3rd place awards as individuals, teams and chapters.
Matthew Kronenberg,’22, Succasunna, New York, took 1st place for Financial Services, Kayla Abcede, '23, Garwood, New Jersey, took1st place for Insurance Concepts, and Peter Amicucci, ’22, Poughquag, New York, won in Retail Management. At the 2022 Pennsylvania State Leadership Conference, the Scranton chapter earned top ranking for Local Chapter Annual Business Report and Community Service Project.
“Last semester, we had several students qualify for the National Competition in Chicago. I was overwhelmed when the Kania School of Management Dean's Office said that they would cover the expenses to attend. The students and I were extremely thankful for the support,” Mahalak said.
At the 2022 Pennsylvania State Leadership Conference, Qualifiers Thomas Yager, ’23, Randolph, New Jersey, and Justin Galli, 23, Wayne, New Jersey, came in 2nd place for Accounting Analysis and Decision Making.
Galli serves as Vice President, and Yager serves as Parliamentarian/Historian/Reporter for 2022-2023 Officer Term.
Lamar Bishop, ‘25, McDonough, Georgia, won 2nd place in Information Management. Bishop is Secretary for 2022-2023 Officer Term.
Hirali Patel, ’23, East Stroudsburg, earned 2nd place in Networking Concepts.
As a team, Kevin Scanlon, ’22, Verona, New Jersey and Joseph DeFeo, ’23, Berkeley Heights, New Jersey, earned 2nd place in Social Media Marketing. DeFeo is President for the 2022-2023 Officer Term.
Amicucci and Abcede earned 2nd place in Strategic Analysis & Decision Making.
William Fauerbach, ‘23, Verona, New Jersey, and Jeffrey Kobasa, ‘25, Lansdale, Pennsylvania, earned 3rd place in Networking Concepts and Sports Management and Marketing, respectively.
“Dr. Nabil Tamimi and the University have enabled us to create some amazing opportunities and experiences. I look forward to building upon the foundation that we created last year.” Program Moderator Dr. David Mahalak, Faculty Specialist, Operations & Analytics.
The national Future Business Leaders of America conference is for collegiate business students from across the United States, in addition to a few other countries, who have successfully competed at the state level and qualified for the highest level of competition.
At the 2022 Pennsylvania State Leadership Conference, Abcede and Amicucci competed as a team, earning 5th place for Strategic Analysis & Decision Making. Amicucci also earned 10th place for Retail Management. The Chapter came in 10th place for Local Chapter Annual Business Report.
“As Moderator, I fully encourage our students to participate in programs like FBLA because it provides unparalleled opportunities to network with professionals in various fields, network with peers who have similar interests, participate in presentations, panels, workshops, competition, and much more.”
Mahalak noted that this summer members built a new website for the program. View the complete slate of officers and competition results by year HERE.
Future Business Leaders of America Earn Top Awards
Serhii Kuzmin Jr. completed his high school studies in Ukraine in 2021 and spent a gap year searching for a school in the United States to fulfill his dream of attending college in America. He found a fit to cultivate his love of philosophy grounded within a Catholic tradition at The University of Scranton.
Then, he was awakened by loud noises in the early morning hours of February 24. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine had begun and everything else stopped.
For three days, he and his parents sheltered in his home in Kharkiv, deciding it was too dangerous to try to escape their city as it was being attacked by Russian forces. On the fourth night, he and his parents packed what they could fit into their car and drove with a small group of close relatives to a village in central Ukraine away from the invading forces. There they began to make arrangements to escape to Germany.
He and his parents stayed there for three weeks, as they secured documents verifying Serhii’s exemption from military service and other permissions needed to leave Ukraine and attain refugee status in Germany. Serhii and his parents were able to safely cross the border by car to Germany, where they were given lodging in a one-room World War II bomb shelter.
With access to the internet again and encouragement from his parents, Serhii renewed his plans to pursue his dream of attending college in the United States. He regained contact with Stacey Urgento, assistant director of graduate admissions at The University of Scranton, who was able to confirm his admittance to Scranton’s class of 2026 and that the University would be able to provide financial assistance to cover his education expenses.
Although he was moving ahead with his dream, his thoughts and concern for his family and friends in Ukraine engulfed him. Russians had advanced to his grandparents’ village and he was worried about their safety.
“The Russian soldiers who occupied my grandparents’ town cut off all humanitarian aid,” said Serhii. His grandparents survived the occupation eating potatoes and other foods they were able to store before the town was invaded. His grandparents were spared the further atrocities committed by Russian occupiers that occurred in Bucha and other towns.
Serhii sees his effort in the war as one of communication. He wants to share the awful truth about what is happening in his country, saying accounts by media and on the internet are not accurate.
It is a battle for which he is well suited.
Serhii studied English in public school since the 1st grade. He noticed, however, that when he was in 8th grade, his friends’ skills in English were out pacing his.
“I decided to change all of my electronic devices to English in order to force myself to learn the language,” said Serhii. It worked. He is now fluent in English.
His mother, a teacher who is highly educated with a master’s degree, introduced and encouraged his interest in philosophy. That interest, and his Orthodox Christian religion, in turn led him to look at Catholic, Jesuit schools in America, eventually finding The University of Scranton. His mother also preferred Scranton to colleges located in larger cities.
Although she is glad he will attend The University of Scranton, she and her husband will miss Serhii greatly. They are trying to find a sponsor in the United States or Canada so that they can move closer to him.
Serhii’s Mission
Intelligent, self-motivated and resilient, Serhii, who will major in computer science at Scranton, continues to move forward with his life and his mission to tell others of the awful realities of the senseless destruction of the war in Ukraine.
The school Serhii attended in Kharkiv was hit multiple times by missiles.
“The front section of the school is completely gone. The two sides of the building are badly damaged. Basically, the school is destroyed,” said Serhii, who said homes, theaters, malls, museums, schools and universities were devastated in the attack.
“The only reason my parents and I could think of for bombing schools and museums would be to try to completely wipe out a culture,” said Serhii. “Homes could be rebuilt, but it is much more difficult to rebuild a museum, or a school, or a university. You need the community to do that.”
The village where his grandparents live is now protected by Ukraine forces. Yet he has other family members and friends in Russian occupied territories of Ukraine where communication is completely cut off.
“I hope that by talking about how this war destroyed villages and towns, and killed, hurt and damaged the lives of so many people, maybe in the future, people will be more reasonable and peaceful and others will not have to go through what we experienced” said Serhii.
Serhii’s contribution to Ukraine’s fight has begun on Ukraine’s Independence Day.
$content.getChild('content').textValueStudent from Ukraine Joins Class of 2026
The University of Scranton announced Campus Health and Safety protocols related to the pandemic for the fall semester. The plan, informed by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance released on August 11, is intended to minimize the impact of COVID-19.
The University’s Campus Health and Safety protocols follow the latest guidance concerning isolation and exposure, as well as contact tracing and vaccine recommendations.
Other aspects of the University’s plan were unchanged from the summer months. Masks will remain optional in all campus buildings regardless of vaccination status, unless otherwise instructed. The campus remains open to the general public.
The full update for the fall semester is available on the University’s Campus Health and Safety webpage.
Fall Campus Health and Safety Protocols Announced
The “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project, a National Endowment for the Humanities-funded initiative of The University of Scranton with the support of community partner organizations, continues this fall with a series of community programming. The first fall 2022 event, “The 1902 Anthracite Strike: Causes and Consequences, A 120th Anniversary Evaluation,” will feature a keynote lecture with Anthracite historian and sociologist, Dr. Robert Wolensky, a respondent panel and discussion. It is planned for Thursday, Sept. 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the Lackawanna County Courthouse. Registration is required at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/1902Strike
This event will take place in Courtroom 3 of the Lackawanna County Courthouse, the historic location of the arbitration for the 1902 strike that had President Theodore Roosevelt in attendance. Dr. Wolensky's keynote on the 1902 labor strike in Scranton, Pennsylvania, will be followed by remarks from respondent panelists, and a moderated conversation with Q&A.
Dr. Wolensky will provide insights into the history of labor and industry of the region by highlighting factors that led to the 1902 strike, resulting labor laws, and the experiences of marginalized groups within the labor movement. A Professor Emeritus of Sociology at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Dr. Wolensky also serves as Adjunct Professor History at King’s College, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and has published several books on the area’s history and culture.
After the keynote presentation, respondents will discuss how the complexities surrounding the 1902 strike can provide insights into the present and future of labor, and the economy for Scranton and the nation. Respondent panelists are Melissa R. Meade, Ph.D., Visiting Assistant Professor of Communication, Allegheny College and founder of "The Anthracite Coal Region of Northeastern Pennsylvania Digital Project," a public digital humanities forum that she continues to maintain, and Paige Gebhardt Cognetti, Mayor of Scranton.
This event, the first in the theme "From the Industrial Revolution to Act 47 & Beyond,” begins a fall slate in continuation of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project.
Additional theme events in Scranton will include:
- “A Shop on Every Corner: Memories of the Garment Industry" Film Screening & Discussion, with historian Dr. Ken Wolensky and filmmaker Maureen McGuigan, on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Ritz Theater & Performing Arts Center,
- “Weaving the Past into the Future: Scranton Lace Tour,” in collaboration with the Center for the Living City, on Saturday, Oct.15, at the Laceworks Village,1315 Meylert Ave.; check-in,1:30 p.m., event, 2 to 3 p.m.,
- a connected exhibition “Time and Lace: A History of the Scranton Lace Company,” at The Hope Horn Gallery, Sept. 2 through 30, with an opening during First Friday Scranton, Sept. 2, from 5 to 9 p.m., and
- a Curator’s Lecture, on Friday, Sept. 16, at The University of Scranton, Brennan Hall 228, from 5 to 6:00 p.m., followed by a Public Reception in Hyland 407 from 6 to 8:00 p.m.
Fall events will continue with an additional theme launching late fall: "From "Immigrant" to Citizen."
About 'Scranton's Story, Our Nation's Story'
The "Scranton's Story, Our Nation's Story" project launched in October 2021, with events focusing on the inaugural them "Portrait of Scranton, Portrait of a Nation," including a Jane Jacobs Walk on Scranton's downtown Lackawanna Avenue, and a keynote lecture with prolific Scranton-born author Jay Parini.
Events continued through winter 2022, with the project's second theme, "The U.S. Citizen and the American Founding," featuring a book discussion, humanities discussion with scholars Annelein De Dijn and Aziz Rana, and a community dialogue.
The project launched its third theme, "The Indigenous History of NEPA" in spring 2022, and will continue with events in November, including a special keynote lecture. Curtis Zunigha, enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians and co-founder/co-director of the Lenape Center will speak on Nov. 17, at The University of Scranton, DeNaples Center Ballroom, at 7 p.m.
For more information, and to view upcoming events and recordings of past events, please visit www.scranton.edu/scrantonstory.
Questions? Contact community@scranton.edu or call 570-941-4419.
Scranton’s Story Fall Events Begin on Sept. 8
Meet Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., a professor in the Physics & Electrical Engineering Department. Here, he talks about his work alongside students to study the upper atmosphere and its connection to space.
Read related stories about Dr. Frissell:
August 15, 2022: Students Present Space Physics Research
August 3, 2022: Physics and Engineering Faculty Host Radio Blasters Summer Camp
August 2, 2022 : Professor Awarded Six-Figure NSF Grant
March 28, 2022: Tuning in to the upper atmosphere - Skywatch 16
Video: Faculty Spotlight: Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D
If you are covered under the University's health insurance, don't forget SwiftMD is Available to You While On Vacation! SwiftMD doctors are on call 24/7, from your home, office...or summer vacation!
SwiftMD’s telemedicine service is included in your healthcare benefits package here at the University of Scranton. This benefit is provided at no cost to you. It’s simple and you are already a member.
When you schedule a consult, you will hear back from a doctor within the hour. Download the app, log in at
SwiftMD.com, or call 833-SWIFTMD (833-794-3863).
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SwiftMD telemedicine service available to you while on vacation
Sept. 2-30 Art Exhibit: “Time and Lace: A History of the Scranton Lace Company.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Sept. 2 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring Matt Marantz Quartet. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Sept. 7 3 p.m. PCN 2022 Pennsylvania Election Panel Discussion. Pennsylvania Cable Network panel discussion on Pennsylvania’s Governor and U.S. Senate races. Panelists include JoyAnna Hopper, Ph.D., co-director of The University of Scranton’s Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service, and Borys Krawczeniuk, investigative reporter for the Scranton Times-Tribune. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Free. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
Sept. 7 3:45 p.m. Public Meeting for The University of Scranton’s Department of Health and Human Performance – Speech-Language Pathology program with the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Kane Forum, Leahy Hall. Free. Call 570-941-6305 or email info@scranton.edu.
Sept. 8 5:30 p.m. Lecture: “The 1902 Anthracite Strike: Causes and Consequences, A 120th Anniversary Evaluation” presented by Bob Wolensky, Ph.D., sociologist and anthracite historian with panel respondents. The event is part of “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story,” a project supported by a NEH grant led by The University of Scranton and community partners. Lackawanna County Courthouse, 200 N. Washington Avenue. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Sept. 12 Noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “Covering the White House: Challenges and Opportunities” presented by Ashley Parker, White House Bureau Chief for the Washington Post and NBC/MSNBC senior political analyst. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Sept. 13 11 a.m. Volunteer Fair for area nonprofit agencies offering volunteer opportunities for students. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Pre-registration required. Call 570-941-7429 or email ellen.judge@scranton.edu.
Sept. 15 4:30 p.m. Q and A with Brian Baumgartner, The Office cast member and author of “Seriously Good Chili Cookbook” and “Welcome to Dunder Mifflin: The Ultimate Oral History of The Office.” Exclusive event for University students, faculty and staff. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Registration required. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
Sept. 15 5:30 p.m. Book signing with Brian Baumgartner, The Office cast member and author of “Seriously Good Chili Cookbook” and “Welcome to Dunder Mifflin: The Ultimate Oral History of The Office.” Exclusive event for University students, faculty and staff. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Royal card ID required. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
Sept. 16 5 p.m. Art Gallery Curator’s Lecture: “Time and Lace: A History of the Scranton Lace Company.” Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Reception follows at the Hope Horn Gallery. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Sept. 17 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital” featuring Carlos Avila, piano, and Vincent Grana, bass voice. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Sept. 19 Noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “Higher Education’s Indispensable Role in Preserving and Advancing Democracy” presented by Ira Harkavy, Ph.D., founding director, Barbara and Edward Netter Center for Community Partnerships, University of Pennsylvania. Kane Forum, Edward Leahy Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Sept. 21 7:00 p.m. “A Shop on Every Corner: Memories of the Garment Industry Film Screening and Discussion” presented by Ken Wolensky, Ph.D., historian and Maureen McGuigan, filmmaker. The event is part of “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story,” a project supported by a NEH grant led by The University of Scranton and community partners. Ritz Theater and Performing Arts Center. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Sept. 22 7 p.m. NASA event for college and high school students and the general public about future space missions and related careers. PNC Auditorium and Atrium of Loyola Science Center. Free Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
Sept. 23 9 a.m. NASA Northeast Pennsylvania Industry Day, a networking event focused on collaboration opportunities with local businesses. Fourth Floor, DeNaples Center. Free with reservations required to attend. (reservation link if needed: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nasa-industry-day-and-small-business-networking-event-tickets-383703245737). Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
Sept. 23-25 The University of Scranton Family Weekend 2022. Various campus locations. Call 570-941-4222 or email familyweekend@scranton.edu
Sept. 24 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert: Family Weekend” featuring Joseph Boga and the Scranton Ramblers with an appearance by The University of Scranton Concert Choir. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Sept. 28 Noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “Managing Today and Envisioning Tomorrow: Leading the City of Scranton” presented by Paige Gebhardt Cognetti, mayor, City of Scranton. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Sept. 29 6:30 p.m. President’s Business Council 21st Annual Award Dinner honoring Patricia A. Byrnes Clark ’86, global chief talent officer, Havas Group, and Thomas P. O’Brien ’86, CEO and president, SumRidge Partners, LLC, at Gotham Hall, New York City. Proceeds from the dinner support the University’s Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund. Tickets required. Call 570-941-5837, visit www.scranton.edu/PBCdinner or email timothy.pryle@scranton.edu.
Oct. 1 9 a.m. Scranton’s Ready to Run Northeast Pennsylvania Program: “Wanted: More Women Like You in Politics.” Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6326 or email sharon.olechna@scranton.edu.
Oct. 5 6 p.m. Asian Studies Public Lecture and Meet the Award-winning Author “Life on the Move: Transnational Migration and Cross-Cultural Imagination in Taiwan Literature and Film,” Part 1. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Free. Call 570-941-6312 or email ann.pang-white@scranton.edu.
Oct. 6 6 p.m. Asian Studies Film Screening and Meet the Award-winning Director of “The Good Daughter.” “Life on the Move: Transnational Migration and Cross-Cultural Imagination in Taiwan Literature and Film,” Part 2. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Free, Call 570-941-6312 or email ann.pang-white@scranton.edu.
Oct. 7 through Nov. 18 Art Exhibit: “Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala” photographs by Byron Maldonado. Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Oct. 7 5 p.m. Art Gallery Lecture: “Mayan Narratives: San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala” presented by Byron Maldonado. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Reception follows at the Hope Horn Gallery. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Oct. 12 7:30 p.m. Ignatian Values in Action Lecture: “On Juneteenth” presented by Annette Gordon-Reed, Pulitzer Prize winner and New York Times best-selling author. Byron Recreation Complex. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Oct. 13 Noon. Schemel Forum and Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Collaborative Program: “Threats to Equity: The Influence of Social Determinants on Human Behaviors that Promote Well-being” presented Julie Byerley, MD, president and dean of Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Oct. 15 2 p.m. Art Gallery: “Walking Tour: Scranton Lace Company/Lace Village Site.” Free. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Oct. 15 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital” featuring Andrew Gonzalez, viola and violincello da spalla. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Oct. 21-23 and 28-30 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. “Almost, Maine” presented by The University Players. Royal Theater, McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. Ticket prices vary. Call 570-941-4318 or email players@scranton.edu
Oct. 23 9 a.m. Open House for prospective students and their families. Various locations on campus. Registration required. Free. Call 888-SCRANTON or email admissions@scranton.edu.
Oct. 23 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital” featuring Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner, piano. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Oct. 29 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring The University of Scranton Jazz Band and guest drummer Carmen Intorre Jr. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Nov. 6 9 a.m. Open House for prospective students and their families. Various locations on campus. Registration required. Free. Call 888-SCRANTON or email admissions@scranton.edu.
Nov. 8 7:30 p.m. 36th annual Henry George Lecture: “Still Worth the Trip? Modern-Era Busing and other Lessons from Urban School Reform” presented by Parag Pathak, Ph.D., professor of economics, MIT. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-4048 or email janice.mecadon@scranton.edu.
Nov. 10 Noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “On Democracy, Inequality and Jazz Improvisation” presented by Wayne Winborne, Ph.D., executive director, Institute of Jazz Studies, assistant professor arts culture and media, Rutgers University-Newark. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Nov. 12 7:30 a.m. Schemel Forum bus trip to New York, New York, to August Wilson’s “The Piano Lesson” $150. Registration required before Sept. 30. Spaces are limited. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Nov. 12 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring The University of Scranton Symphonic Band. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Nov. 17 7 p.m. Lecture featuring Curtis Zunigha, enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians and co-founder/co-director of the Lenape Center. The event is part of “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story,” a project supported by a NEH grant led by The University of Scranton and community partners. McIlhenny Ballroom, The DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Nov. 17-19 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday. “Rent” presented by Liva Arts Company. The Royal Theater, McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. $5. Call 570-941-7401 or email livaartscompany@gmail.com
Nov. 18 Time: 6 p.m. Schemel Forum with the Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library Collaborative Program: The Royden B. Davis, S.J. Distinguished Author Award Event honoring Ayad Akhtar, Pulitzer Prize winning and Tony Award nominated playwright, novelist and screenwriter. McIlhenny Ballroom, The DeNaples Center. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Nov. 18 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring The University of Scranton String Orchestra. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Dec. 2 Noon. Schemel Forum’s Munley World Affairs Luncheon Series: “How Putin’s Invasion of Ukraine Changed the World” presented by Trudy Rubin, Worldview columnist, The Philadelphia Inquirer. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Dec. 3 8 p.m. Performance Music: “54th Annual Noel Night” featuring The University of Scranton Singers and Chamber Ensembles. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Dec. 5 5 p.m. Community Relations Roundtable: “The Journey from ‘Immigrant’ to Citizen” featuring local resource speakers from a range of backgrounds, in collaboration with the Schemel Forum. The event is part of “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story,” a project supported by a NEH grant led by The University of Scranton and community partners. PNC Board Room, Brennan Hall. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Dec. 9 Noon. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “Process of Peace, Palermo: An Experience, a Model” presented by Leoluca Orlando, professor, former mayor of Palermo, honorary mayor of Palermo Huila Columbia and cofounder of Global Parliament of Mayors. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Dec. 11 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “Empty Stocking Fund Benefit Concert.” Performance Music student musicians perform solo, duet, trio and small group renditions of a variety of Christmas favorites. Houlihan-McLean Center. Admission: one new unwrapped toy, new toiletry items or a monetary donation. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Schemel Courses:
Mondays: Sept. 19, 26 and Oct. 3, 17, 24, 31 6 p.m. Schemel Forum Course: “Crossing the Line(s): Reading and Writing Contemporary Poetry” presented by Billie Tadros, Ph.D., assistant professor of English and theatre, The University of Scranton. Room 305, Weinberg Memorial Library. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Wednesdays: Sept. 21, 28 and Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26 6 p.m. Schemel Forum Course: “What is Fascism?” presented by Roy Domenico, Ph.D., professor of history, The University of Scranton. Room 305, Weinberg Memorial Library. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Tuesdays: Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25 and Nov. 1, 8 6 p.m. Schemel Forum Course: “How a Masterpiece of Medieval Irish Art Bridged the Classical and Christian Worlds” presented by Stephen Whittaker, Ph.D., professor of English and theatre, The University of Scranton. Room 305 Weinberg Memorial Library. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Fall Semester Events Planned at University
Once again, the annual Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminars at The University of Scranton will feature an array of thoughtful discussions geared around critically important global issues.
Six highly accomplished thinkers will be featured at the fall luncheons, which will take place from noon to 1:30 p.m. in Brennan Hall’s Rose Room 509 (with the exception of the second event). In addition, a Zoom link is available for those who wish to attend remotely.
The series begins Monday, Sept. 12, with “Covering the White House: Challenges and Opportunities,” presented by Washington Post White House bureau chief Ashley Parker. At the talk, Parker will share stories and lessons from her life on the campaign trail and covering two presidents. Parker covered the 2012 and 2016 presidential campaigns, and currently serves as an NBC/MSNBC senior political analyst.
Next, on Monday, Sept. 19, Ira Harkavy, Ph.D., founding director of the Barbara and Edward Netter Center for Community Partnerships at the University of Pennsylvania, will present “Higher Education’s Indispensable Role in Preserving and Advancing Democracy.” At the talk, which will take place in Edward Leahy Hall’s Kane Forum 235, Harkavy will examine the current threats to democracy around the world and higher education’s role in helping to meet the threat.
“I would like to have the audience appreciate higher education’s indispensable role in preserving and advancing democracy, particularly at this time with the rise of autocracy and authoritarianism,” Harkavy said. “I would also like to discuss how a democratic mission has been at the core of U.S. colleges and universities through much of their history, as well as how that mission might be best achieved in 2022.”
On Wednesday, Sept. 28, Scranton Mayor Paige Gebhardt Cognetti will return to the Schemel Forum to present “Managing Today and Envisioning Tomorrow: Leading the City of Scranton.” Cognetti will provide a glimpse into her average day and discuss the unique responsibilities that come with running a city of Scranton’s size.
“Shedding the past while charting a course for the future is a challenge, especially for public entities,” said Cognetti, who added running a city “requires teams of thoughtful people who don’t always agree, creativity, positive thinking and good local coffee.”
On Thursday, Nov. 10, Wayne Winborne, executive director for the Institute of Jazz Studies and assistant professor of arts culture and media at Rutgers University-Newark, will present “On Democracy, Inequality, and Jazz Improvisation.” During the talk, Winborne will explore the state of our current democracy, the cause and corrosive effect of deepening inequality, and the utility of jazz improvisation as both a metaphor and actual strategy for rebuilding society, community and human relations, both domestically and abroad.
“I hope to talk about our particular form of democracy and how the challenges we face today will require us to be like great jazz musicians in their ability to improvise collectively and individually,” Winborne said. “I also hope to start a conversation about forward-thinking problem solving at the community level based on these ideas.”
On Friday, Dec. 2, Trudy Rubin, WorldView Columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer, will present “How Putin’s Invasion of Ukraine Changed the World.” Rubin will look at how the West must confront a new era in which despotic rulers seek to expand their territory by force, now that the rules-based order of the post-World War II world is over.
Finally, on Friday, Dec. 9, the series will conclude with “Process of Peace, Palermo: An Experience, a Model,” presented by Leoluca Orlando, former Mayor of Palermo, Sicily, honorary Mayor of Palermo Huila Colombia and cofounder of the Global Parliament of Mayors. Now a university professor, Orlando will discuss his experiences courageously combatting the Mafia during his many years as mayor of Palermo.
Admission is free for University students, faculty, staff and Schemel Forum members. For non-members, the seminars are $25 in-person (buffet lunch included) and $10 for remote access. A live-stream link will be emailed prior to the event.
To register for the seminars, contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816 or kym.fetsko@scranton.edu. Or, to pay online, visit: www.scranton.edu/schemelforum.
Additional Schemel Forum events scheduled for the fall semester include courses, collaborative events and a bus trip. The full schedule events can be found on the Schemel Forum’s webpage.
For more information on Schemel Forum programs and memberships, contact Sondra Myers, Schemel Forum director, at 570-941-4089 or sondra.myers@scranton.edu. Myers talks about the fall programming in an interview with Erika Funke for WVIA.
Schemel Forum Luncheon Seminars Set for Fall
U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright announced that NASA will offer an industry day and networking event focused on collaboration opportunities with local businesses at the DeNaples Center at The University of Scranton.
The NASA Northeast Pennsylvania Industry Day will be held Friday, Sept. 23, beginning at 9 a.m. on the fourth floor of the University’s DeNaples Center. The regional business-building event will include national and local speakers, presentations, and networking opportunities in collaboration with the Keystone Space Collaborative, Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center, and Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance Procurement Technical Assistance Center.
Local business owners, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and university representatives are encouraged to attend the free event. Registration is required.
“Northeastern Pennsylvania has a proud industrial heritage, and I’m looking forward to helping our local businesses work with NASA on advancing America’s world-leading space exploration program,” said Rep. Cartwright, who chairs the Commerce-Justice-Science Appropriations Subcommittee, which funds NASA. “I thank NASA for their valued effort to form successful partnerships with local businesses that will generate a strong economic impact in our community.”
During the event’s one-on-one networking sessions, participants will be paired with multiple “buyers” from government and industry relevant to their company’s offerings. The meetings will also provide attendees government contract advice and guidance on how to work with NASA and other aerospace contractors.
“Collaboration with businesses is a cornerstone of NASA’s technology development and exploration work,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. “We look forward to connecting with the innovators of northeast Pennsylvania and sharing information about opportunities to work with NASA.”
“The University of Scranton is pleased to be able to provide a venue for NASA representatives to explore opportunities with local business representatives and is grateful to Congressman Cartwright for facilitating these connections. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students as well as for members of the greater Scranton community,” said Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., interim provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at The University of Scranton.
“We are very pleased to be supporting this event to show Northeastern Pennsylvania is open for business and our manufacturers are ready for the opportunity to hear from NASA speakers, and to be part of the matchmaking portion of the day,” said Jeffrey Box, president and CEO of the NEPA Alliance PTAC. “This would not be happening without the support of Congressman Cartwright and his staff, and we thank him for making this event a reality.”
In April of 2022, University students met with Retired Col. Douglas H. Wheelock, a NASA astronaut, who spoke to students about the Launch America Program and plans for the U.S. mission to return to the moon. Also in 2022 and in 2021, Scranton undergraduates participated in NASA’s RockOn! Program through which a device built by the students was launched into space.
For more information or to register for the event, please click here.
NASA Industry Day Set for Sept. 23 on Campus
The University of Scranton’s Department of Health and Human Performance – Speech-Language Pathology program invites you to a public meeting with the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). The CAA is a nationally recognized accrediting agency. As part of the CAA’s recognition by the U.S. Department of Education (ED), the agency is encouraged to develop a method for allowing public input about the accreditation process and about graduate education programs prior to final decision by the CAA. Accordingly, individuals who wish to provide input about a program seeking candidacy (pre-accreditation) may do so in two ways: (1) submitting written comments prior to the accreditation site visit in accordance with the procedures specified below or (2) attending and providing comments at a public meeting during the program’s scheduled site visit. All comments provided must:
- relate to a program’s compliance with the published Standards for Accreditation of Graduate Education Programs in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (Standards) in effect at the time comments are submitted, and
- identify the specific program seeking candidacy, initial accreditation, or reaccreditation with the CAA.
Public Meeting
Date: Wednesday, September 7, 2022
Time: 3:45 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location: The University of Scranton - Edward Leahy Hall – Kane Forum - 235
If you are unable to attend, you are invited to submit written comments. Please see below for the Policy on Written Comments. A copy of the Standards for Accreditation and/or the CAA’s Policy on Public Comment may be obtained by contacting the Accreditation Office at ASHA, 2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, Maryland 20850, calling ASHA’s Action Center at 1-800-498-2071, or accessing the documents online at https://caa.asha.org/.
Comments Submitted Prior to the Site Visit
The CAA publishes on its website the list of programs that have submitted applications for candidacy, initial accreditation, and reaccreditation during that calendar year for which the CAA is seeking public comment as part of its current accreditation review of the published programs. The listing will include the dates of the scheduled site visit for each program. Individuals who wish to submit written testimony about any of the programs scheduled for a site visit must adhere to the following procedures.
- All comments about education programs are due in the Accreditation Office no later than 15 days before the first day of the scheduled site visit. Comments received after this time will not be forwarded to the site visit team for consideration during the accreditation review.
- All written testimony—including comments faxed or submitted as e-mail attachments--must include the commenter’s name, address and telephone contact information and the commenter’s relationship to the program in order for Accreditation staff to verify the source of the testimony. All comments must be signed. Comments should be submitted to:
Accreditation Public Comment
Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
2200 Research Boulevard, #310 Rockville, MD 20850
accreditation@asha.org Fax: 301-296-8570.Notice of Public Meeting
Four University of Scranton students and a physics and engineering faculty member presented their research at the National Science Foundation CEDAR Workshop in Austin, Texas, in June and the 2022 Dayton Hamvention, which is the world’s largest ham radio gathering that was held in Xenia, Ohio, in May.
Veronica Romanek ’23, a physics major from Hampton, New Jersey, presented “HF Doppler Observations of Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances in a WWV Signal Received with a Network of Low Cost HamSCI Personal Space Weather Stations” at the National Science Foundation CEDAR Workshop. Romanek also presented “Traveling Ionospheric Disturbance Observations with the Grape Personal Space Weather Station” at the 2022 Dayton Hamvention. In addition, Romanek participated in the national Youth on the Air (YOTA) Camp in July. The week-long camp, which took place at the Voice of America Museum in Cincinnati, Ohio, allows young people from across the country to meet and learn more about amateur radio.
Cuong Nguyen ’23, an electrical engineering major from Ashley, presented “An Algorithm for Determining the Timing of Components within the HamSCI-WWV/WWVH Scientific Test Signal” at the National Science Foundation CEDAR Workshop and at the 2022 Dayton Hamvention.
Simal Sami ’24, an information technology major from Jessup, presented “Ionosondes of Opportunity Observed with GNU Chirpsounder2 from a HamSCI PSWS Prototype Station in Spring Brook, Pennsylvania” at the National Science Foundation CEDAR Workshop.
Francis Tholley, ’21, G’23, a current software engineering graduate student from Darby, who earned his bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from Scranton, presented “Porting the MUSIC Algorithm to the SuperDARN pyDARN Library for the Study of Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances” at the National Science Foundation CEDAR Workshop.
At the National Science Foundation CEDAR Workshop, Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics and electrical engineering at The University of Scranton, presented “Recent Advances in Observing Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances Using Amateur Radio Techniques” and “HamSCI Observations for Ionospheric Measurement.” He also presented “First Observations of Large Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances Using Automated Amateur Radio Receiving Network” at the 2022 Dayton Hamvention and “HamSCI Plans for the Study of the 2023 & 2024 Solar Eclipse Impacts on Radio and the Ionosphere” at both events. Dr. Frissell will lead a National Science Foundation grant-supported collaborative research project that will collect and analyze data on the ionospheric variability during the 2023 and 2023 solar eclipses.
Dr. Frissell served as the research advisor for these students and was also the keynote speaker at the national Youth on the Air Camp. In addition to working with Dr. Frissell, these students work with collaborators from other institutions and from around the world. Many of these collaborators are volunteers from the HamSCI Citizen Science project with years of professional experience and advanced academic training. These collaborations provide a unique a community-based research experience that is enriching to both the students and the volunteers.
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Katherine Posillico '23 is an occupational therapy major who completed a 40-hour fieldwork assignment as an OT intern at Summit Oaks Hospital in Summit, NJ.
Here, she answers questions about her experience.
What were your everyday responsibilities?
The everyday responsibilities for Level 1 fieldwork included observing a different therapist each day while they conducted their group activities and one-on-one assessments. I was responsible for helping therapists prepare materials to run their groups and write progress notes based on participation of group members.
What is the goal of fieldwork for occupational therapy students?
The goal of fieldwork for occupational therapy students is to learn how occupational therapy is practiced in a clinical setting. However, the fieldwork site I was placed in did not have an occupational therapist, so the goal was geared more toward figuring out how occupational therapy can be applied in a mental health setting.
What did you enjoy most about the job?
My favorite part of the job was actually being able to talk with and get to know the clients. They all have a story and most of them just want to talk to someone about their interests and experiences.
How do you think this prepared you for your future as an occupational therapist?
The fieldwork experience prepared me as a future occupational therapist because I was able to become more familiar with the mental health population and can use my experience if I decide to work with this population in the future.
How do you think your courses at the university prepared you for your fieldwork?
I think the mental health courses at the university helped prepare me for fieldwork because they taught us how different mental illnesses can impact clients as well as practicing running group sessions.
How does this connect to the university's Jesuit ideals of being men and women for others?
The fieldwork experience connects to the university’s Jesuit ideals of being men and women for others because the therapy is client-centered and focuses on the clients’ interests when deciding on purposeful activities for group sessions.
Summer Spotlight: Katherine Posillico '23
Erin Quinn '23 is an occupational therapy major who completed a 40-hour summer fieldwork assignment at New Roots Recovery Center in Wilkes Barre, PA.
Here, she answers questions about her experience.
What were your everyday responsibilities?
My primary responsibility as a Level I fieldwork student was to observe the Certified Rehabilitation Specialists (CRS) while they worked with clients. I also assisted in the documentation process, which involved inputting information about clients into a computer program.
What is the goal of fieldwork for occupational therapy students?
Fieldwork is designed for OT students to gain experience in multiple sectors of OT practice. As a Level I fieldwork student, I was able to observe typical days at a mental health clinic and execute some of the skills I learned last semester in my mental health lecture and lab.
What did you enjoy most about the job?
The most enjoyable part of my fieldwork experience was connecting with clients who attended the clinic. Developing a bond and trust between clients and clinicians is one of the most unique and enjoyable parts of occupational therapy.
How do you think this prepared you for your future as an occupational therapist?
This experience was designed to prepare me for the mental health field. After the week of observation, I feel better equipped with activities and skills that can be used to guide therapy sessions.
How do you think your courses at the university prepared you for your fieldwork?
A few of my courses have prepared me for this experience. First, my mental health lecture and labs taught me various occupation-based activities to do with clients. These courses also helped me gain an in-depth understanding of various mental health disorders that the clients at my fieldwork site presented with.
Also, I took a group dynamics course which taught me how to lead group sessions. While this fieldwork experience was mostly observational, I did witness many group therapy sessions, so I was able to analyze them using the knowledge I gained from this course.
How does this connect to the university's Jesuit ideals of being men and women for others?
The field of occupational therapy, as well as this mental health clinic, have evident roots in client-centered practice. This means that the client is central to the healing process, and we use their wants, needs, and experiences to personalize their interventions. A client-centered view connects to the Jesuit ideals of being men and women for others because it demonstrates the concern for and dedication to serving others.
Summer Spotlight: Erin Quinn '23
A comprehensive analysis of the return on investment (ROI) of college degrees at more than 4,500 colleges in the United States shows the value gains of liberal arts education during the lifetime of a career. The analysis also ranks the ROI of a degree from The University of Scranton among the top 6.1 percent of colleges in the country after 40 years, among the top 7 percent after 30 years and among the top 11 percent after 20 years.
The analysis by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce calculated the 40-year net present value of a University of Scranton degree is $1.133 million, which ranked No. 276 of 4,500 colleges in the nation (top 6.1 percent). The 30-year net present value for a Scranton degree was calculated at $842,000, which ranked at No. 310 in the nation (top 7 percent); and the 20-year net present value of a degree was $488,000, which ranked at No. 489 in the country (top 11 percent).
The Center ranked 4,500 colleges based on the net value of the degrees at 10, 20, 30 and 40 years after enrollment using data from the expanded College Scorecard. The analysis, published online in the spring of 2022, looked at the net cost of attendance, which includes tuition, fees, books and supplies, and living expenses, minus aid received from all sources. The Center then calculated the net present value of a degree, which is “a metric that includes costs, future earnings and the length of time it would take to invest and earn a certain amount of money over a fixed horizon.”
The analysis found that “bachelor’s degrees from private colleges, on average, have higher ROI than degrees from public colleges 40 years after enrollment. Community colleges and many certificate programs have the highest returns in the short term, 10 years after enrollment, though returns from bachelor’s degrees eventually overtake those of most two-year credentials.”
In addition, the analysis showed “the median ROI of liberal arts colleges is nearly $200,000 higher than the median for all colleges. Further, the 40-year median ROI of liberal arts institutions ($918,000) is close to those of four-year engineering and technology-related schools ($917,000), and four-year business and management schools ($913,000).”
Scranton has been recognized for its value in other national rankings such as U.S. News & World Report and The Economist. Most recently, Money magazine ranked the University at No. 268 among its selection of just 623 of the nation’s best values for a college education.
ROI of Scranton Degree Ranks in Top 7 Percent
For the second year in a row, a device built by University of Scranton undergraduates was among approximately 60 devices build by college students from across the U.S. and launched into space by NASA in a rocket. The devices were built as part of a special NASA program called the RockOn! through which students were sent kits to build atmospheric sensing devices, called payloads. The devices were built and tested on campus then sent to the RockOn! program headquartered in Colorado. NASA launched into space about 60 devices build by undergraduate students on June 24.
The University students who participated were: Cuong Nguyen ’23, Ashley, an electrical engineering major; Gerard Piccini ’25, Monroe Township, New Jersey, an electrical engineering major; Ellie Rosentel ’22, Kingston, who earned her bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering in May from the University; and Mergim Berisha ’22, Wilkes-Barre, who earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering in May from the University.
Following the launches, the devices with the data collected will be returned to the University for the students to then study further.
“This unique project provides an opportunity for students to obtain hands-on experience in developing space-flight experiments, which is vital in developing future scientists and engineers,” said Giovanni Rosanova, chief of the NASA Sounding Rockets Program Office at NASA’s Wallops Island Flight Facility, who noted this is the 14th year that “the NASA Sounding Rocket Program has provided a suborbital rocket flight for undergraduate university students to fly their experiments into space.”
Support for this project was provided through the NASA Pennsylvania Space Grant Consortium, of which The University of Scranton is now an affiliate. The PA Space Grant is part of the national Space Grant mission to expand opportunities for U.S. citizens to learn about and participate in NASA’s aeronautics and space programs by supporting and enhancing science and engineering education, research, and outreach programs. Additional NASA Space Grant activity at the University of Scranton includes a project by mathematics professor Joseph Klobusicky, Ph.D. entitled, “Phase Transitions in Two-dimensional Foams,” and an upcoming project led by physics and engineering professor Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D. entitled, “Development of a Low-Cost Low-Power Ionosonde.”
NASA Launch Includes Scranton Student Project
Eleven University of Scranton faculty members were honored with Faculty Enhancement awards for excellence in teaching, scholarship or service. The Office of the Provost and the Provost Advisory Group selected the recipients from a pool of candidates nominated by academic deans and department chairs.
Darla Germeroth, Ph.D., and Margarete Lieb Zalon, Ph.D., received the Excellence for University Service and Leadership Award, which recognizes faculty members who have contributed service to the University community, particularly those who demonstrate academic leadership by effectively mentoring their junior colleagues. Dr. Germeroth, professor of communication and media, joined the faculty at Scranton in 1989. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Kansas State University and her Ph.D. from the University of Denver. A member of Scranton’s faculty since 1988, Dr. Zalon, professor of nursing and director of the online Master of Science in Health Informatics Program, earned her bachelor’s degree from Duke University and her master’s and Ph.D. degrees from New York University.
Renee Hakim, Ph.D., and Roberrt McKeage, Ph.D., received the Faculty Senate Excellence in Graduate Teaching Award, which recognizes a faculty member who demonstrates dedication to teaching graduate students in a manner that creates an encouraging and intellectually stimulating environment that promotes critical thinking and learning. Dr. Hakim, professor and chair of the Department of Physical Therapy, joined the faculty at Scranton in 1996. She earned her bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton, her master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh and her Ph.D. from Temple University. Dr. McKeage, associate professor of management, marketing and entrepreneurship and director of the Business Leadership Honors Program, joined the faculty at Scranton in 1974. He earned his bachelor’s and MBA degrees from The University of Scranton, his master’s degree from Lehigh University and his Ph.D. from Temple University.
Jennifer Kaschak, Ph.D., received the Excellence in Advancing Interdisciplinary Study Award, which recognizes a faculty member who demonstrates noteworthy academic leadership in promoting and strengthening cross-disciplinary or interdepartmental teaching and learning endeavors. Dr. Kaschak, associate professor of education, joined Scranton’s faculty in 2010. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Illinois Wesleyan University, her master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin and her Ph.D. from Columbia University.
Bonnie Markowski received the Excellence in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Award, presented to faculty members who make extraordinary efforts to enhance student learning and who practice teaching as a form of scholarship. Professor Markowski, a faculty specialist in the English and Theatre Department, joined the faculty at Scranton in 2007. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland and her master’s degree from The University of Scranton.
Jessica Nolan, Ph.D., received the Excellence in Integrating Diversity in Learning Award, which recognizes a faculty member whose efforts to integrate diversity in the curriculum have enriched the students’ learning experiences. Dr. Nolan, professor of psychology and director of the environmental studies concentration, joined the faculty at Scranton in 2008. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Cornell University, her master’s degree from California State University and her Ph.D. from the University of Arkansas.
Ismail Onat, Ph.D., received the Excellence in Scholarly Publication Award, presented to faculty members who have attained distinction in scholarship or creative activity. Dr. Onat, assistant professor of sociology, criminal justice and criminology, joined the faculty at Scranton in 2016. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the Turkish National Police Academy and his master’s degree and Ph.D. from Rutgers University.
Matthew Reavy, Ph.D., posthumously received the Magis Award for Excellence in Adapting Classic Principles of Jesuit Pedagogy into the Curriculum. This award is intended to recognize a faculty member who makes specific, sustained, and creative efforts to adapt classic principles of Jesuit Pedagogy in his or her own courses. Dr. Reavy, associate professor in the Department of Communication and Media, who passed away Feb. 2 of this year, joined the faculty at the University in 1998. During his nearly 25-year tenure at Scranton, he served on numerous committees and governance bodies, as department chair and as the faculty adviser to The Aquinas. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The University of Scranton and his Ph.D. from the University of Missouri.
In addition, Barbara Bossi, adjunct professor of health administration, and Eric Hosie, adjunct professor of marketing, management and entrepreneurship, were honored with the Part-Time Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching. Professor Bossi, senior director of network management and development at UPMC Health Plan, has taught as an adjunct professor in the Panuska College of Professional Studies since 2016. A Fellow of American College of Healthcare Executives, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Marywood University and her master’s degree from The University of Scranton. Professor Hosie, a certified financial planner and vice president at M and T Securities, Inc., has taught as an adjunct faculty member in the Kania School of Management since 2008. A graduate of The University of Scranton, he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1988 and his MBA in 1993 from Scranton.
University Faculty Recognized for Excellence
The Center for Service and Social Justice at The University of Scranton will hold its annual Volunteer Fair for local nonprofits from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, on campus.
The fair offers University students and student-led clubs interested in service projects and community-based learning sites a chance to meet representatives from nonprofit organizations in need of volunteers.
To register a nonprofit organization for the event, email ellen.judge@scranton.edu or call 570-941-7429. The deadline to register for the fair is Sept. 8.
Fair for Nonprofit Agencies Seeking Volunteers
On Thursday, July 26, The University of Scranton Jesuit Center hosted a Spirituality Luncheon for staff and faculty as part of celebrations to commemorate the Feast of St. Ignatius and the end of The Ignatian Year.
Guest speakers included Daniel Cosacchi, Ph.D., vice president for mission and ministry, Teresa A. Grettano, Ph.D., PHD, MA, BA, associate professor in the English and Theatre department, and Ryan Sheehan, J.D., executive director of the Jesuit Center at The University.
Sheehan welcomed the crowd of more than 80 in attendance and described one of the missions of the Sprituality Luncheons, which generally take place three times each year.
"They provide an opportunity to bring people together in good conversation and good fellowship," said Sheehan.
Dr. Grettano opened by explaining that the Ignatian Year allowed her to reflect on how the process has changed her life, including the way she responded to a 2015 breast cancer diagnosis.
"It has helped so much through the difficult times... I was able to respond to that diagnosis with Ignatian indifference, because I had been taught that here. The freedom that attitude gives you in times of hardship is a beautiful gift."
Dr. Grettano introduced a group discussion topic of how Ignatian Spirituality plays out in professional and personal life, and asked a spokesperson from each table to share their experience.
Mary Ann Maslar, Office Manager and Administrative Assistant for the Dean College of Arts and Sciences said:
"We have all levels of community here, and we're very blessed to have that," Maslar said.
Therese Kurilla, A.BS, MBA, Grants Manager shared a perspective on establishing positive interactions with students.
"We can be helping our students by learning to step back and listen first," Kurilla said.
Last week, The University of Scranton joined Jesuit colleges and universities across the world to mark the close of “The Ignatian Year,” a year-long, worldwide celebration of the 500thanniversary of the transformation of St. Ignatius, the founder of the Society of Jesus.
The University lit its Class of 2020 gateway sign with a white cross and purple background the evenings of July 28 to July 31, the Feast Day of St. Ignatius and the official closing date of The Ignatian Year.
Other activities included an a ice cream social for faculty and staff on Friday, July 29, hosted by Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president, and Daniel Cosacchi, Ph.D., vice president for Mission and Ministry at the University.
Spirituality Luncheon celebrates closing of Ignatian Year
We are happy to announce that Kristie Ceruti joined the University’s marketing communications department on July 25 as the University Editor and Social Media Manager.
In this role, Kristie will be working with departments and organizations across campus to share their news and stories, not only in Royal News, but also in The Scranton Journal and on our social media sites.
“In the short time that I’ve been at the University, I've experienced a welcoming atmosphere and overall sense of helpfulness from every member of faculty and staff I've met. I look forward to connecting with many more Royals in the coming weeks,” she said.
Prior to joining our staff, Kristie was Senior Marketing Communications Specialist at Benco Dental for nine years, where she guided the company’s public relations and social media efforts, launched and curated their consumer-facing blog, and collaborated on their award-winning magazine, Incisal Edge.
Her editorial experience also includes two decades as a journalist, leading community and alt-weekly newsrooms in Clarks Summit, Wilkes-Barre, and the suburbs of Philadelphia.
You can reach Kristie at extension 6337 or at kristie.ceruti@scranton.edu.
Submissions to Royal News or The Scranton Journal should be sent to
RoyalNews@Scranton.edu
ScrantonJournal@Scranton.edu
Meet the new Editor for Royal News – Kristie Ceruti
For a second summer, area high school students arrive on campus with an interest in physics and leave knowing how to create and use a radio.
Ten rising sophomores, juniors and seniors attending The University of Scranton Radio Blaster Physics Summer Camp July 27 - 29 culminated the “learning by doing” experience by making radio contacts outdoors in the campus Rose Garden at the corner of Linden Street and Monroe Avenue.
Members of the Physics and Engineering department hosted the event, including Dr. Declan Mulhall, Dr. Nathaniel Frissell, and Professor Rachel Frissell. Assisting were current undergraduate students: Veronica Romanek, Simal Sami, Shaaf Sarwar, Cuong Nguyen, and software engineering graduate students Devin Diehl, Franics Tholley, and Nisha Yadav. West Scranton High School Physics teacher Scott Dustman also participated at the camp.
Each day from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., attendees learned topics in physics associated with electricity, magnetism, light and radio waves. At the Loyola Science Center, students gained insight on the following common curriculum topics:
* Geometric optics and telescopes
* Wave optics and diffraction
* Basic electronics
* Using an oscilloscope to measure voltages
* Faraday’s law, how to make an electric current with a magnet
* "Looking" at sound waves with a signal generator and an oscilloscope
* Radio waves
* Making and using a radio
Physics and Engineering Faculty host Radio Blasters Summer Camp
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague’s accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!
THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for June 2022 is: Chris Krall - Infrastructure and Network Services
How long have you worked for the University?
I was hired in 1994, so almost 28 years. My first job was evening computer operator.
What is your title?
My title is Senior Systems Engineer.
What do you like best about your job?
I get a great deal of satisfaction seeing projects through to completion. I am also thankful for the flexibility of hybrid work!
What do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy being outdoors -- running, biking or just relaxing with family and friends.
We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Chris does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Chris and all our nominees.
Chris will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University foodservice outlets, as well as a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavillon for the month of June. Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition event in May to receive a certificate of appreciation. We congratulate our winner and all the other nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees.
July 2022 Nominees:
Margaret Mazzino - Facilities
Karl Johns -Technology Support Services
Thomas Cody-Infrastructure & Security Services
Gary Lalli - Registrar
Lisa Notarianni - Information Technology
Glen Pace - IT Client Services
Chris Krall - Infrastructure & Network Services
Tom Kern - IT
Lynn Andres - Development/PEC
Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award Winner, July
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague’s accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!
THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for August 2022 is: Peggy Doolittle, Office of Annual Giving/Advancement
How long have you worked for the University?
I began my University career in 2008, working in Student Life, moving to External Relations in 2010, and landing in University Advancement from 2012-present (and loved each experience!)
What is your title?
I serve the University as an Advancement Assistant.
What do you like best about your job?
Although I love everything about my job, if I had to pinpoint one piece (because I'm such a people-person), it would be hosting events!
What do you like to do for fun?
So many things, but a few of my favorite fun things are spending time with my son and his wife, sleepovers with my grand-dog (Joey), golf, playing BUNKO the first Friday of each month, and attending Book club the third Tuesday of the month! 🙂
*****
We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the outstanding devotion that Peggy demonstrates each and every day. Stop down to Louis Brown Hall to congratulate Peggy!
Peggy will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University foodservice outlets, as well as a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for the month of August. Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition event in May to receive a certificate of appreciation.
We congratulate our winner and all nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!
August 2022 Nominees:
Lynn Andres, Parents’ Executive Council
Tom Cody, Infrastructure & Security
Peggy Doolittle, Office of Annual Giving/Advancement
Karl Johns, Technology Support Services
Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award Winner, August
A Message from the President
Dear Students, Alumni, Faculty, Staff and Friends:
This past year on campus, we’ve celebrated often. There have been building dedications, Landmark Championships and many academic achievements, not to mention a much-needed alumni Reunion. What a joy it was to watch our Center for Service and Social Justice volunteers gather and package meals inside the newly dedicated Arrupe House and to cheer as our newest graduates processed across the stage in May. These are moments I cherish and that I will carry with me throughout my presidency and beyond.
We also celebrated the launch of the campus-wide plan for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, which supports our Strategic Plan. While there is much work to be done, the plan — and Catholic Social Teaching — will help to guide us toward a more inclusive community, a more just society. You can read about the good work being done related to the plan in this issue of the magazine, along with other stories that connect us, near and far.
I could not be prouder to be a part of this University. Your incredible stories help me to understand further what makes this place so special. And your support helps to sustain Scranton’s goals and future endeavors. I hope to celebrate them with you in person soon. In the meantime, please keep the University in your prayers and be assured of mine in return.
Yours Faithfully,
Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J.
President
IN THIS ISSUE:
Features
- Student-Led Investing Pays Off
The PRISM student group has successfully managed a portion of the University’s endowment from $100,000 to nearly $1 million in 23 years. - Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Plan Launched
A new plan is released to support the Strategic Plan’s goal of building an inclusive community.> - Helping First-Generation College Students Achieve Endless Possibilities
This article by Shannon Murphy Fennie, assistant dean of students, originally appeared in Connections, the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities’ magazine. - One-on-One with 2021-22 Student Government Leaders
The Scranton Journal talks to 2021-22 student government leaders Adrianna Smith ’22, G’23 & Claire Sunday ’23.
Alumni Profiles
- Daniel Walsh, Ph.D. ’00: Magis at the Pentagon
A chemist is led by mission and service as the new director of the Pentagon Force Protection Agency. - Geoff Sanders ’94: In the Waters of Cape Cod
A career studying coastal ecology and salt marshes leads to an opportunity to study and preserve the resources of Cape Cod National Seashore. - Chloe Strickland ’17: Speaking Up
A college counselor opens doors for her students through life lessons and a deep connection to Scranton.
The New Issue of The Scranton Journal is Here!
Kathleen Wallace '23, Kaitlyn Franceschelli '23, and Nicholas Gershey '23 served as team leaders at a weeklong program at at our Chapman Lake Retreat Center called SPARK, which is designed to support at-risk youth between the ages of 12-15.
Here, they answer questions as a group about their experiences.
What are the goals of the SPARK program?
SPARK is a weeklong program hosted at Chapman Lake for local youth ages 12-15. SPARK educates kids on various important topics such as self-worth, healthy lifestyle, healthy and unhealthy relationships, and bullying. During the week, University and Scranton Preparatory School volunteers are focused on listening to and encouraging each SPARK participant so they feel valued.
Who took part in the SPARK program?
The SPARK program was born as a collaborative effort between The University of Scranton and Scranton Preparatory School. This year, 13 University students, 12 Scranton Preparatory students, two additional volunteers, SPARK alumni, Prep staff, and the University’s CSSJ staff all came together to make SPARK possible for the 23 SPARK participants.
Describe a typical day of SPARK.
A typical day starts off with the team awaiting the arrival of the kids around 9 a.m. After breakfast is served, the patented SPARK dance offers a boost of energy. Next, each small group heads to a station with activities designed by team members to coincide with the day's theme. For instance, during the topic of bullying, an activity can revolve around identifying and constructively dealing with bullying. Five stations total lasting about 20-25 minutes each.
Lunch is followed by free time to jump into the lake (lifeguard supervised), play volleyball, create arts and crafts, and more. Small groups then return to stations for activities on another theme.
After dinner, at 5 p.m., kids leave the lake and team members prepare the Retreat Center for the next day. The day ends with reflection and a review of upcoming activities.
How did you use the Chapman Lake Retreat Center to conduct the program?
We utilized almost all of the Retreat Center to conduct this program. Each activity took place at one of five locations: the lake room, the porch, the tent, the large/small group room, or the dining room. Meals were served in the dining room, but everyone ate under the tent outside. During free time, campers might play piano or Just Dance in the lake room, or go outdoors for swimming and volleyball. At night, the chapel was used for reflection.
What do you think is the community impact of running a program like this?
This program can only be of benefit for the greater Scranton community. Many of the kids have talents or personality traits that they’ve hidden from others prior to SPARK. Through encouragement by the team members and other kids, they learn how to outwardly express themselves and better those around them. It is the empowerment of youth, giving them the tools, confidence, and knowledge necessary to make a change for the better.
What do you think the teens got out of SPARK?
Our hope is that all SPARK participants leave the week knowing their worth, appreciating the importance of their gifts and talents, and understanding they are cared for and loved by all at SPARK. At the end of every SPARK, we invite the kids to share about the week. This year, one teen shared that they saw their SPARK leaders as role models, and another expressed that they had felt listened to and loved at SPARK. The growth they undergo during this week shines through.
How does it feel to participate?
From the team's perspective, one overwhelming feeling stays with us long after SPARK: gratitude. We are extremely humbled and grateful to meet such inspiring, intelligent, and incredibly powerful young people.
We learn immensely from them and are renewed by their positivity, energy, and loyalty to one another.
How does this connect to the university's Jesuit ideals of service and 'being men and women for others'?
A friend once shared that at the core of what it means to be Jesuit educated is the question of how we can love one another best. Both our team and our participants possess different strengths and gifts, and watching each of them use those to love is the whole point. We see the kids look out for, respect, and affirm one another and our team and we do the same for them and each other.
Each year the team and participants show trust, honesty, care, and above all, love to one another. They choose to be all-in with each other and for each other, even as strangers. It’s beautiful and impossible to describe. What happens at Chapman Lake during the week of SPARK is magical, and precisely the definition of being “men and women for and with others."
Summer Spotlight: SPARK Program
John O’Malley ’87, Lieutenant Colonel, US Army Retired, is recovering from injuries he sustained in an accident while riding in an ultra-distance cycling race and raising money for a University memorial scholarship honoring his brother.
After riding for more than a month in the Tour Divide, a 2,745-mile cycling race from Alberta, Canada, to New Mexico, in support of the fourth Ryan O’Malley Annual Ride (ROAR), a fundraiser for the Ryan T. O’Malley ’99 Memorial Scholarship at the University, O’Malley was involved in an accident near Silver City, New Mexico, about 125 miles from the race’s finish line in the early morning hours of July 15. According to the O’Malley family, John was found by two motorists who spotted him on the side of the road and alerted the police.
According to a GoFundMe page set up by Katie O’Malley, John’s daughter, to help with their family’s medical expenses, “John was airlifted from the scene in New Mexico and taken to an intensive care unit/trauma center in El Paso, Texas.
“We have since learned that he has endured a traumatic brain injury.”
Although John can’t recall the events surrounding the accident, he publicly thanked the Silver City police officers who assisted him in a Facebook post dated July 26.
“I am most grateful for their decisiveness and professionalism as a CT scan revealed a subdural hematoma,” he wrote. “I still have no idea how nor when I sustained these injuries.
“At this point, I’m heartbroken that I didn’t finish the race, but happy to be under great care (with) a great prognosis to return soon and get ‘er done! The silver lining to all of this is that we raised over 12k for the Ryan T. O’Malley Memorial Scholarship fund at The University of Scranton allowing students in need the opportunity to get a college education.”
According to John “Jack” O’Malley, Ph.D. ’64, professor of psychology emeritus at the University and John’s father, John was transferred from the University Medical Center of El Paso to Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Colorado Springs July 27, and he was released to his home in Monument, Colorado July 30, where he will continue outpatient physical therapy.
“His recovery has been remarkable!” Dr. O’Malley said. “Everyone has been so kind, and we deeply appreciate the caring and prayers.”
According to several recent Facebook posts and comments made by John and his circle of friends, he remains an inspiration to many, and he plans to dedicate himself fully to healing and recovering until he’s ready to race again.
“I’m headed back to Silver City to finish this baby!” he wrote in a Facebook comment July 30.
To follow John’s progress and learn more about the Ryan T. O’Malley Memorial Scholarship, visit this link.
ROAR
On June 10, John embarked upon ROAR: The Ryan O’Malley Annual Ride for the fourth time by participating in The Tour Divide, an annual ultra-distance cycling race that sees participants traverse the length of the Rocky Mountains from Alberta, Canada, to the US/Mexico border in Antelope Wells, New Mexico, in support of the Ryan T. O’Malley ’99 Memorial Scholarship.
After Ryan's passing in 2011, his family established the scholarship in his memory to enable Computer Science students of limited resources with an interest in fitness to attend The University of Scranton. Since that time, Ryan's family and friends have raised more than $150,000 for the scholarship, much of it through ROAR: The Ryan O'Malley Annual Race, a 5K fundraising event the family organized from 2013-2017. In 2018, John embarked upon the inaugural ROAR: The Ryan O’Malley Annual Ride by cycling the 500+ miles of The Colorado Trail from Denver to Durango in Ryan’s memory. While John rode The Colorado Trail again for ROAR in 2019 and 2020, he was sidelined by injuries and knee surgery in 2021. Prior to beginning The Tour Divide, John said he was looking forward to riding for “family, community and the well-being of others.”
“I ride to remember and honor our brother, Ryan,” he said. “I ride to give back in some way to the community who nurtured us. Through the ROAR and Ryan’s scholarship, we help to provide students with limited financial resources the opportunity to attend The University of Scranton.”
John’s love of cycling and adventure began when he was growing up in the Green Ridge section of Scranton.
“Bikes were a big deal back then, and if you had one, you were a lucky kid,” he said. “ For me, the bike became an instrument of exploration, discovery and freedom.”
As the oldest child of Dr. O’Malley and his wife, Helene, John shared his love of cycling with his five siblings, especially Ryan, his youngest brother.
“As a kid, time and distance had little meaning,” he said of the hours they spent exploring the NEPA area together. “We’d just ride, inspired by the adventure and the natural beauty of the region.”
Upon graduating from the University, John began his military career in Ft. Carson, Colorado, where he started racing mountain bikes. Since then, he has continued to ride and race, competing in triathlons and adventure races throughout the country. When he and his family settled in Monument, Colorado, he became so inspired by the expanses and terrain he saw on two wheels that he proposed the idea of funding Ryan’s scholarship through an annual bike ride.
The Tour Divide
The Tour Divide follows the 2,745-mile “Great Divide Mountain Bike Route,” a 90% off-road trail that follows the Continental Divide through Alberta, British Columbia, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico. Established by the Adventure Cycling Association in 1998, it is considered the most important off-pavement cycling route in the world.
The Tour Divide’s race clock runs 24 hours a day, and the self-supported riders aren’t allowed any outside help other than the ability to access public facilities along the way that are available to everyone. Participating cyclists must carry their camping equipment, food and water through long stretches of remote mountain wilderness, pristine river valleys, open grassland and desert while risking injury, mechanical failure, treacherous weather and encounters with potentially dangerous wildlife.
To support the Ryan O’Malley Annual Ride and Ryan’s scholarship, visit this link.
O'Malley Recovering From ROAR Injuries
The President’s Business Council (PBC) will present President’s Medals to Patricia A. Byrnes Clarke ’86, P'17,’19, global chief talent officer for Havas Group, and Thomas P. O’Brien ’86, P’19, chief executive officer & president of SumRidge Partners, LLC, at its 21st Annual Award Dinner on Thursday, Sept. 29, at Gotham Hall in New York City.
“We are looking forward to being in person for this year’s PBC Dinner in late September as we celebrate our honorees, the University, and our students,” said Timothy J. Pryle ’89, executive director of the PBC. “We have two wonderful honorees who are excellent representatives of the PBC and who continue to have a tremendous impact on the University and our students.”
In presenting the President’s Medal, the University and the PBC recognize individuals who have achieved excellence in their fields, who have demonstrated extraordinary compassion for others, and who personify the University’s mission of Catholic and Jesuit excellence and service. Since its inaugural dinner in 2002, the PBC has generated nearly $20 million for the Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund.
To find out more about this year’s dinner and our honorees, visit the PBC Dinner link. To register for this year’s dinner or to make your contribution, visit the RSVP link. For more information on this year's event or the PBC, please contact Tim Pryle at (570) 941-5837 or pbc@scranton.edu.
PBC To Hold 21st Annual Award Dinner Sept. 29
Fall is nearly here, and The University of Scranton has scheduled a number of alumni-centered events designed to help you connect with your fellow Royals.
Scranton G.O.L.D. At Pier 13
Join your fellow graduates of the last decade (G.O.L.D.) in the Hoboken area Aug. 4 at Pier 13, 1301 Sinatra Dr N, Hoboken, NJ, at 6:30 p.m. for an evening on the pier! The $10 registration fee includes a drink ticket and a Scranton giveaway. To register, visit this link.
Scranton Club of New York Yankee Game
The Scranton Club of New York will meet at Yankee Stadium Aug. 17 to watch the New York Yankees take on the Tampa Bay Rays.
The game will begin at 7:05 p.m., and gates will open at 5:30 p.m. The club will hold a pre-game reception on the Budweiser Party Deck featuring 90 minutes of food, draft beer, and non-alcoholic beverages, all of which will be included in the price of admission. Tickets will cost $75.
This event is sold out.
Scranton Club of Philadelphia To Gather At Independence Beer Garden
The Scranton Club of Philadelphia will hold a gathering Sept. 8 at Independence Beer Garden, 100 S Independence Mall W, Philadelphia, at 6 p.m. The $30 registration fee includes a drink ticket, appetizers and a Scranton giveaway. To register, visit this link.
The President’s Business Council 21st Annual Award Dinner
The President’s Business Council (PBC) will present President’s Medals to Patricia A. Byrnes Clarke ’86, P'17,’19, global chief talent officer for Havas Group, and Thomas P. O’Brien ’86, P’19, chief executive officer & president of SumRidge Partners, LLC, at its 21st Annual Award Dinner on Thursday, Sept. 29, at Gotham Hall in New York City.
“We are looking forward to being in person for this year’s PBC Dinner in late September as we celebrate our honorees, the University, and our students,” said Timothy J. Pryle ’89, executive director of the PBC. “We have two wonderful honorees who are excellent representatives of the PBC and who continue to have a tremendous impact on the University and our students.”
In presenting the President’s Medal, the University and the PBC recognize individuals who have achieved excellence in their fields, who have demonstrated extraordinary compassion for others, and who personify the University’s mission of Catholic and Jesuit excellence and service. Since its inaugural dinner in 2002, the PBC has generated nearly $20 million for the Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund.
To find out more about this year’s dinner and our honorees, visit the PBC Dinner link. To register for this year’s dinner or to make your contribution, visit the RSVP link. For more information on this year's event or the PBC, please contact Tim Pryle at (570) 941-5837 or pbc@scranton.edu.
Fall Alumni Event Preview
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, announced Daniel Cosacchi, Ph.D., has been named vice president for mission and ministry, effective July 18, 2022. He will also serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet.
“Through his education at Jesuit universities and his experience in higher education at Catholic schools, Dr. Cosacchi understands well and values greatly the important role Catholic and Jesuit education plays in the formation of our students,” said Father Marina in a campus announcement. “He always places students first in his efforts and holds them in high regard, as he challenges and encourages them to discover their calling and reach their full potential in service to the needs of this world. His efforts to engage students in reflection and service extend beyond the classroom and beyond the campus.”
As vice president for mission and ministry, Dr. Cosacchi is responsible for articulating, enhancing and promoting the University's Catholic and Jesuit identity across all constituencies. He will provide leadership and direction for the departments of Campus Ministries, the Jesuit Center, and the Center for Service and Social Justice, while overseeing mission and ministry initiatives for the University community including students, staff and faculty.
Dr. Cosacchi previously served as assistant professor of religious studies at Marywood University. In addition to teaching core and elective courses in theology and religious studies, he was the College of Arts and Sciences representative on the Mission Integration Committee and director of the Justice and Peace Studies Program. He also served as Marywood’s representative to the Synod on Synodality and served on several other committees.
Dr. Cosacchi is co-author/editor of the book “The Berrigan Letters: Personal Correspondence Between Daniel and Philip Berrigan,” and has published articles in the Journal of Jesuit Studies, among other journals.
Prior to joining the faculty at Marywood University, Dr. Cosacchi taught at Fairfield University and was a Canisius Postdoctoral Fellow there from 2016-2019. He served as faculty moderator for the Canisius Academy, planning and hosting prominent events centered on social justice and the Catholic intellectual heritage and moderating mini-lectures on Catholic topics. He also served as a mentor for Ignatian Residential College there.
Dr. Cosacchi earned his bachelor’s degree from Fordham University, his master’s degree from Boston College and his Ph.D. from Loyola University of Chicago.
Vice President of Mission and Ministry Named
Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics and electrical engineering at The University of Scranton, will lead a $399,211 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant-supported collaborative research project entitled “Measuring Daily Ionospheric Variability and the 2023 and 2024 Solar Eclipse Ionospheric Impacts Using HamSCI HF Doppler Shift Receivers.” As the lead principal investigator, Dr. Frissell will work with students at the University of Scranton, collaborators at Case Western Reserve University, and volunteers across the nation to study how dawn, dusk, and solar eclipses affect the electrified portion of the upper atmosphere known as the ionosphere. This will be done using a network of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) stabilized/synchronized high frequency (HF) receivers (known as Grapes), which were developed as part of the $1.3 million NSF-funded HamSCI Personal Space Weather Station (PSWS) project he was awarded in 2019.
An annular solar eclipse will take place on Oct. 14, 2023 and a total solar eclipse will take place on April 8, 2024.
“These are the last solar eclipses to traverse the continental United States until 2044, and are therefore important, time-sensitive, information rich opportunities for running unique and ‘controlled’ ionospheric experiments,” said Dr. Frissell. “This project takes advantage of the unprecedented opportunity to study the ionospheric impacts of the 2023 and 2024 solar eclipses and the daily ionospheric variability associated with dawn/dusk transitions.”
A better understanding of the impact of ionospheric disturbances is imperative, because these changes can affect crucial navigation and communications systems.
According to Dr. Frissell, this new NSF grant will fund an additional 30 Grape receivers that will be deployed throughout North America. Volunteers from the HamSCI amateur radio community will be able to fund and field additional stations. All stations will run continuously from deployment through at least the end of the project in 2025, and will capture the 2023 and 2024 eclipses. The grant will also support master’s and Ph.D. level student participation in the research data collection and analysis.
“This project will also establish a new network of measurement instruments that, due to its low- cost and operation by volunteers, has the potential to provide measurements for years to come,” said Dr. Frissell, who also noted that results of the project “will be shared widely with the amateur radio community through presentations at amateur radio conventions, local clubs, and publication in amateur radio magazines and journals.”
In a news release announcing NSF funding received by The University of Scranton and Marywood University, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright said, “(t)he bright and talented STEM students trained by Marywood today become the Dr. Frissells of tomorrow, conducting cutting edge scientific research, but whether in the classroom or in the field, scientists and professors need funding to do their important work. As the chair of the Commerce-Justice-Science subcommittee that funds the National Science Foundation, I am proud to support this essential investment in education and research.”
In addition, Dr. Frissell was awarded a highly-competitive, five-year $616,054 NSF CAREER grant in 2020 to apply sophisticated, physics-based atmospheric/ionospheric models to extensive data sets collected through the international network of ham radio operators.
Dr. Frissell joined the faculty at Scranton in the fall of 2019. He earned a doctorate and a master’s degree in electrical and computer engineering from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, and a bachelor’s degree in physics and music education from Montclair State University in New Jersey. He is the founder and lead organizer of the international citizen science space physics research collective known as the Ham Radio Science Citizen Investigation (HamSCI.org). HamSCI is recognized as an official NASA Citizen Science Project.
Professor Awarded Six-figure NSF Grant
The Center for Service and Social Justice at The University of Scranton will hold its annual Volunteer and Service Fair for local nonprofits from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, in the DeNaples Center ballroom, 4th floor.
The fair offers University students and student-led clubs interested in service projects and community-based learning sites a chance to meet representatives from nonprofit organizations in need of volunteers.
To register a nonprofit organization for the event, email ellen.judge@scranton.edu or call 570-941-7429. The deadline to register for the fair is Sept. 8.
There is no prior registration necessary for student guests.
Fair for Nonprofit Agencies Seeking Volunteers
Five students from The University of Scranton Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) Student Chapter were selected as one of the final-four teams for the national IMA Case Competition held in Austin, Texas in June. Marissa Angelo ’22 of Dickson City; Matthew Earley ’23 of Perkasie; Andrew Faulkner ’23 of Randolph, New Jersey; Claudia Pitts ’22 of Scranton; and Russell Young ’22 of Charleston, South Carolina; presented in front of a live audience during the IMA Annual Meeting. The team offered their strategic recommendations on how to maximize customer value for a fictitious indoor futsal facility based on various economic, financial, cultural and industry factors.
For the competition, student teams from around the country submitted their analysis in early February, and after multiple rounds of a blind submission and judging process, the final-four teams were selected in late April. At the final four competition, The University of Scranton student team presented against three student teams from The University of Nevada—Las Vegas, with one of those being named the winner. Just for making it to the finals, the University of Scranton team received a cash prize of $2,000 and their trip was sponsored by the IMA.
This is the first time that a student team from Scranton was selected to present at the annual meeting since the student chapter’s inception in 2017. Last year, a Scranton case competition team made it to the elite-eight in the judging process. In addition, The University of Scranton’s student chapter was named as one of just five IMA Outstanding Student Chapters for three consecutive years. Ashley Stampone, D.B.A. ’10, G’11, DBA’ 20, assistant professor of accounting, served as the faculty advisor for the final-four team and the student IMA chapter at the University.
Angelo graduated this past May earning her Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. She was a member of both the Business Leadership Honors Program and the Kania School of Management Business Honors Program. At commencement, she received the Outstanding Senior Award in Accounting and Frank J. O’Hara Awards for General Academic Excellence, which is given to students with the highest GPA in each of the University’s three undergraduate colleges. She also among the just 253 students in the nation selected to receive a 2021-2022 Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) scholarship. Angelo is currently completing an assurance internship with E&Y in their Philadelphia office. She will pursue her Master of Accountancy at The University of Scranton this fall.
Earley is a rising senior majoring in finance with business leadership and computer science minors. He is a member of both the Business Leadership Honors Program and the Kania School of Management Business Honors Program. He is the recipient of the University’s full-tuition Presidential Scholarship. He is currently a corporate development intern with Dorman Products in their Colmar office.
Faulkner is a senior majoring in accounting. He is a member of the Kania School of Management Business Honors Program and he will begin pursuing his Master of Accountancy at The University of Scranton in the spring.
Pitts graduated this past May earning her Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. She was a member of both the Business Leadership Honors Program and the Kania School of Management Business Honors Program. She is currently completing an assurance internship with E&Y in their Iselin, New Jersey, office. She will pursue her Master of Accountancy at The University of Scranton this fall.
Young also graduated this past May earning his Bachelor of Science degree in accounting with a minor in business analytics. He was a member of the Kania School of Management Business Honors Program. He will pursue his Master of Accountancy at the University of South Carolina this fall.
Students Advance to Final Four in National Contest
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Daniel J. Herman, M.D. ’82, Seattle, Washington, associate clinical professor of Family Medicine, was named the 2022 Attending of the Year at the University of Washington/Valley Family Medicine Residency where he has helped train over 160 Family Medicine Physicians since the year 2000.
Carol Peters ’82, Scranton, celebrated 42 years as vice president of Peters Design Group, Architectural Engineering.
Richard J. Scalione ’81, Franklin, Tennessee, has written his first children’s book entitled “The Mean, Hungry Washing Machine,” which is available on Amazon.
Ellen T. Wayne, Ed.D. ’89, Florida, is the CEO and executive director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach.
Ron Prislupski ’95, Moosic, was recently named President of the Nativity Miguel School of Scranton.
Heather Rowan-Kenyon, Ph.D. '95, West Roxbury, Massachusetts, was promoted to full professor and department chair of Education Leadership and Higher Education in the Lynch School of Higher Education and Human Development at Boston College.
Samuel J. Denisco ’98, Harrisburg, has joined Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies in its government relations practice. Denisco joins Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies as a principal and will work out of its Harrisburg office.
Davina Capik, Ed.D. G’08, Windsor, received the Samuel T. Gladding Unsung Heroes Award presented by the American Counseling Association (ACA) at the 2022 ACA Conference in Atlanta GA.
Mary Desmarais ’10, Arlington, Virginia, started Catholic Inclusion, LLC, a consulting company which works with Catholic schools to help them become accessible and inclusive to students with intellectual disabilities.
Laura Romanovich ’18, Peckville, began a full-time science instructor position at Johnson College in Scranton.
Olivia Borges ’22, Bethlehem, is a research technician level 2 in the Han Lab at Duke University. Borges will be working alongside Dr. Han studying how gut microbiota regulate host aging. On top of doing research, she also has lab manager duties to help get the lab up and running and be the “PI for the day” whenever she is away.
BIRTHS
A daughter, Adeline, to Will and Tracey Moller ’07, Summit, New Jersey
A daughter, Everly Gassert, to Grif and Jennifer Gentile Gassert ’09, Alpharetta, Georgia
A son, Leo James Nebzydoski, to Meghan and John Nebzydoski ’10, G’12, Pleasant Mount
A daughter, Charlotte Elizabeth Sachs, to Brice ’11 and Jasmine Santiago Sachs ’11, Morristown, New Jersey
A son, Anthony Thomas Santino, Jr., to Thomas and Kaylee Hatfield Santino ’13, Delran, New Jersey
DEATHS
Donald J. Kemple ’56, Syracuse, New York
Bernard Troy ’65, Scranton
Hon. Robert P. Meehan ’69, Freedom
Ronald E. LeKarz ’78, Ellicott City, Maryland
Thomas J. Simrell, D.M.D. ’81, Greenfield Township
Brian L. Carpenter ’87, Olyphant
William F. Holmes, Ph.D. ’94, G’96, Worcester, Massachusetts
FRIENDS' DEATHS
William Mangan, husband of Wendy Yeager Mangan '94
Doris J. Pierce, mother of Thomas M. Pierce ’87
Alumni Class Notes, August 2022
Nicole Gomber '23 is a summer intern at Good Grief, a grief support center for children and families in Morristown, NJ. She is a part of the University's Royal Experience Internship Program.
Here, she answers questions about her experience.
Describe a typical day on the job.
On a typical day in June, I come into work at 2:00 pm to help set up for Nights of Support, which are support groups for children and adults who experienced the death of an immediate family member. These groups meet Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays during the school year from 7 pm - 8:30 pm.
When I get to work, I go to all of the rooms and set up lighting, take out the trash, restock group activities and water bottles, turn on air purifiers, and make sure every room is clean before the groups meet. After setting up the rooms, I fill up the coffee makers and tea kettles in case families want coffee or tea.
After that, I work on our company’s “Community Outreach Database,” which compiles a list of faith-based and community-based organizations, medical providers, and funeral homes to give out as resources for the families.
Along with being a summer intern on Nights of Support, I also take on the role of a group facilitator. In that role, I co-lead support groups in conversation to encourage peer support and lift up one another. I help explain activities and what the meaning behind each activity is. I also take attendance of group participants and facilitators for every Night of Support and log that information into the computer. When the Night of Support is over, the facilitators shortly debrief, and I leave around 9:00 pm.
I come in on Mondays and Wednesdays in the months of July and August. Mostly, I log in necessary information to help with the next program year. I make attendance sheets for families deciding to participate next year, facilitator notes from last year, and gather all feedback from volunteers to help improve activities or groups in September. I also help with preparation for the Good Grief summer camp in August.
What is the duration of your job?
I will be with Good Grief from June 8 to August 5 as an intern. However, I would love to come back in the future as a volunteer!
What are some of the skills you have learned?
Aside from the obvious skills I’ve learned, (i.e., using excel, data collection, etc.), one of the most important skills I’ve learned is language. Society looks at death as a very taboo topic that nobody wants to discuss in a serious manner. However, people use terms to lessen the seriousness of death, or make it a joke.
For example, expressions like, “I died of laughter” or “I’m dying for an ice cream” are expressions I have to be careful about using in front of the children. They could be uncomfortable or hurt by the unnecessary use of death in silly conversations.
On top of that, some children experience the death of a parent or sibling so young, to the point where they don’t understand what death even means. When talking to the youngest support group containing children between ages three and five, we refrain from using words like “lost” “passed” or “at peace” as opposed to “died” or “dead” because this phrasing can confuse the child even more about what death is. This internship has helped me recognize my vocabulary and to be careful with my words, especially in front of families.
Another skill I have learned is to let the children be in control of the support group instead of me, as the facilitator. Unlike many support groups, Good Grief stresses that you do not have to talk about the death of your loved one if you don't want to. While it is better for children and young adults to open up about their grief, their comfort takes priority, and we would rather have Good Grief remain a safe environment than a stressful one.
Many children use the support group as a place to talk about what they are going through where other people understand. To others, Good Grief is ironically a place to escape from talking about it and just chit chat with friends. Forcing children to talk about their trauma when they aren't ready or comfortable only turns them away from help more.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is getting to put a smile on the faces of children who have experienced such a traumatic event. While most of my job is behind-the-scenes administration work, the few times I have been able to facilitate groups have been the most rewarding experiences of my career thus far!
What were your expectations of the job? Does it match the reality?
My expectations for the job was that my role would be 100% administrative and that I wouldn’t be interacting much with families. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that my role was partially administrative and hands on with families. I also expected to learn about what it is like to work for a non-profit organization. This matched and exceeded my expectations in that I learned about community outreach in the Morristown and Princeton areas in New Jersey.
How do you feel this job has prepared you for the real world?
This job has definitely prepared me for the real world because I am learning the proper way to comfort a grieving family and, specifically, how to comfort different age groups. How small children like to be comforted is extremely different compared to how adolescents and young adults want to be comforted. This also has prepared me professionally. I am considering working for a non-profit organization in the future so it is very important to be to gain experience interning for one and seeing if it is something I would enjoy doing.
Summer Spotlight: Nicole Gomber '23
On June 14, The University of Scranton hosted its annual Community Partner Workshop on campus. This event brings together community partners from local nonprofits, educational institutions, and other agencies with University staff and faculty to discuss partnership opportunities and to connect on important community issues. This year marked a welcome return to an in-person workshop, with 48 representatives joining from over 30 greater Scranton area organizations.
During this year’s workshop, University of Scranton staff and faculty from the Office of Community-Based Learning, Office of Community and Government Relations, the Center for Service and Social Justice, the Center for Career Development, and PCPS Field Placement Office shared information. They discussed various ways community organizations can partner with the University to address their agency needs and collaborate on community-wide issues. University members learned about the important community issues and needs from partners, and gained valuable feedback on barriers and facilitators to partnerships. An “Engagement of Hope” model for community engagement was shared that anchored the workshop in an “actionable, equity-centered theory of change.”
“There is so much good work going on in the Scranton community. By joining together, community partners and members of the University were able to connect on shared efforts, feel a sense of solidarity, and identify ways that we can collaborate on the most pressing issues we face as a community to increase our impact – from addressing youth disconnection to welcoming newly arrived refugees,” said Julie Schumacher Cohen, Assistant Vice President for Community Engagement and Government Affairs.
Together, the group reflected on the many impactful events since 2020 and what this means collectively as a community here in Scranton. Important themes highlighted in the small and large groups discussions included the need to build a sense of community; work with youth; engage on issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, including recruiting and retaining employees of color. Other Community Partner Workshop topics included:
- the importance of agency connection and collaboration;
- support for immigrant and refugee populations;
- challenges navigating the social services sector;
- services for the aging population; and
- economic issues exacerbated by the pandemic, such as high poverty rate, the need for a living wage and safe, affordable housing, workforce development, and transportation.
Throughout the event, one reoccurring theme was the importance of gathering collectively. The ability to be together, share a meal, listen to each other, meet new people, and learn helped reinvigorate participants and provided a valuable opportunity for networking and information sharing. Community organizations looking to collaborate can view this contact information slide.
“The community partnership meeting was exceptional because it was an amazing networking opportunity to continue learning about all the work being done in our community by amazing people and organizations. Due to this meeting, I have been able to establish new professional partnerships in order to better coordinate and serve the immigrant community! So, I am beyond grateful for that meeting and hope I can make it to the next,” said Jenny Gonzalez, STARS Program Director; Social Worker, Community Justice Project; and co-chair Lackawanna Immigrant Inclusion Committee.
Information shared by partners at this annual workshop will help inform the University’s community engagement initiatives, including research projects, community-based learning projects, field placements, service opportunities, and internship placements. The workshop also highlighted focus areas that University representatives and community partners can collaboratively address in the coming year.
In addition to the workshop, the University invites greater Scranton area community partner organizations to share feedback on partnerships and/or ideas for future collaborations in an annual Community Partner Spring Survey.
For more information or questions about this event or University-community partnerships, please contact community@scranton.edu.
University hosts annual community partner workshop
Sydney Gero '23 is interning at the New Jersey State Parole Board. Here, she writes about her experience through the Royal Experience Summer Internship Program.
This summer, I am an intern with the New Jersey State Parole Board (NJSPB), in Trenton, NJ, specifically with their Community Programs Division (CPD). The NJSPB’s mission is to promote successful offender rehabilitation, and the CPD assists in this mission by utilizing community-based programs and partnerships to support offender reentry and supervision in the community. Through this internship, I have expanded my understanding of parole, built professional connections, and gained experience that supplements my Scranton education.
Though I expected some clerical aspects, the job never involved making coffee runs or photocopying. Instead, I was tasked with many research projects, such as discovering successful programs offered in other states, and creating resource brochures for children and families of parolees. I felt welcome and included in the workplace, and I am confident in saying that my input and ideas were highly valued.
I gained considerable knowledge about community programs offered to parolees in New Jersey, and had the chance to join my supervisor in visiting a few. Experiences through my internship went beyond the CPD, allowing me to see more than just one part of the parole process. For example, I received the opportunity to attend full board hearings, which are conducted to determine if an individual is ready for release on parole. It was interesting to see the parole board recommend a community program for the individual to complete during their parole supervision. Additionally, I observed revocation hearings, which occur when a parolee has violated conditions of their parole.
The NJSPB internship provided my first hands-on exposure to the criminal justice system, which I thoroughly enjoyed. My major is criminal justice, with a counseling and human services minor. Although I am uncertain of my career goals, the internship has left me eager to continue gaining experience, knowledge, and skills needed to thrive in the criminal justice field.
To follow my summer internship and other students’ internships: sites.scranton.edu/careerservices/
Summer Spotlight: Sydney Gero '23
July
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The University of Scranton Executive Director of Athletics Dave Martin announced on Tuesday that Ben O'Brien has been named the head coach of the women's basketball program. O'Brien becomes the eighth coach in program history and will assume his new role at Scranton on Monday, August 1.
O'Brien comes to Scranton following a highly successful tenure as the head coach at nearby Dunmore High School where he recorded 347 victories in 14 seasons, 13 league championships, 10 district championships and 13 PIAA State Tournament appearances. His overall record over the last 14 seasons was an impressive 347-43 for a winning percentage of .890.
The Lady Bucks found success in the state tournament, advancing to the Sweet 16 on all 13 occasions, 10 Elite Eights, six Final Fours and two state title games.
"I am honored and humbled to accept the position of head women's basketball coach at The University of Scranton. I look forward to the opportunity to build upon the tradition of excellence that embodies Lady Royal basketball," O'Brien said. "I would like to thank Dave Martin and the entire University of Scranton administration for welcoming me into this truly special community."
During his time at Dunmore, O'Brien mentored eight players who earned All-State honors, 13 who garnered All-Regional honors and 19 who received All-Scholastic accolades. Additionally, he has coached over 15 players that went on to play college basketball.
O'Brien has been named Coach of the Year by multiple outlets over the last 14 seasons including LLHoops.com (6x), NEPABasketball.com (4x) and Scranton Times-Tribune (2x). He was also honored as the 2011 PIAA State Coach of the Year.
"We are incredibly excited to welcome Ben O'Brien to our coaching staff. Ben has extensive head coaching experience and has been incredibly successful during his tenure at Dunmore High School. He has a proven track record of caring for and developing the whole person and his values align with the mission of our University," Martin said.
Prior to becoming the head coach of Lady Bucks, O'Brien spent five years serving as a head coach and private instructor for Hoop City/Backcourt Hoops from 2004-2009.
He is a 2004 graduate of Penn State University with a Bachelor's degree in history and has served as a Social Studies teacher at Dunmore High School since 2007. In 2016, O'Brien received a Master's Equivalency degree in Secondary Education with a concentration in Social Studies from the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
O'Brien inherits a Lady Royals program that has won seven straight Landmark Conference Championships and advanced to the Sweet 16 last season with a 27-3 record. He takes over the reins from Nick DiPillo who accepted an assistant coach position at Pitt in June.
Ben O'Brien Named Head Women's Basketball Coach
Money magazine ranked The University of Scranton among its list of the nation’s best values for a college education. The 2022 ranking is based on the magazine’s analysis of dozens of data points to evaluate educational quality, affordability and alumni success. Money ranked Scranton at No. 268 among its selection of just 623 “Best Colleges in America,” a ranking of “schools that combine quality and affordability, while admitting at least 20 percent of applicants.”
This is the seventh consecutive time that Money included Scranton in its published list of America’s best values in college education. Scranton was the highest ranked school in Northeastern Pennsylvania listed.
Scranton ranked in the top 15 percent of schools listed for “outcomes.” The factors Money used to assess “outcomes” included the average salaries of students ten years after enrollment based on data from U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard as well as salaries of graduates adjusted by major. In addition to other factors, the “outcomes” criteria looked at socio-economic mobility data from Third Way that measures a college’s share of students from low- and moderate-income backgrounds as well as the cost and payoff of a degree for those students.
The factors Money analyzed to determine a colleges’ “academic quality” included the six-year graduation rate, the standardized test scores of incoming students, the student-faculty ratio and the graduation rate of Pell Grant recipients, among other factors. The analysis also included “value” assessments that looked at a school’s predicted graduation rates based on the academic and economic profile of its student body versus its actual graduation rates.
The criteria used to assess “affordability” included an estimate of the “net price of a degree,” which assessed tuition, the time it takes for students to graduate, and the school’s average financial aid offered to students. The “affordability” criteria also looked at student debt, student loan default rates, and student loan default rates adjusted for the economic and academic profile of a school’s student body, in addition to other factors.
Colleges with graduation rates below the national median, that were in financial difficulty, or that had fewer than 500 undergraduates, were not included in Money’s ranking. A separate ranking was done for schools that accept fewer than 20 percent of applicants.
Scranton has been recognized for its value in other national rankings such as U.S. News & World Report and The Economist, among others.
Scranton Ranked Among America’s Best Values
Intelligent.com ranked The University of Scranton’s Master of Accountancy Degree No. 3 in the nation for “Best Online Master’s in Accounting” and No. 13 in the country for “Best MBA in Healthcare Management.” The 2022 ranking of accredited, nonprofit schools by the online education source is based on an assessment of student engagement, potential return on investment and leading third-party evaluations of the programs, including an assessment of consistent performance in other national rankings such as U.S. News & World Report.
U.S. News has ranked Scranton has been ranked among the top 10 “Best Regional Universities in the North” for 28 consecutive years. Scranton is ranked No. 5 in the 2022 edition of the guidebook. U.S. News also ranked Scranton No. 14 in its category for “Best Undergraduate Teaching.” Earlier this year, U.S. News ranked Scranton’s MBA Specialty in accounting No. 14 in the nation, tying with Harvard University, Arizona State University and Ohio State University in its full-time MBA program ranking. U.S. News also ranked Scranton’s MBA specialty programs in business analytics No. 29 and finance No. 34 in America. In addition, U.S. News ranked Scranton’s online master’s degree programs in business (excluding MBA) at No. 55; and its online MBA program at No. 98 in the nation in its “Best Online Programs” guide.
Graduate Programs Ranked Among Best in Nation
The University of Scranton will join Jesuit colleges and universities across the world to mark the close of “The Ignatian Year,” a year-long, worldwide celebration of the 500thanniversary of the transformation of St. Ignatius, the founder of the Society of Jesus.
The University will light its Class of 2020 gateway sign with a white cross and purple background the evenings of July 28 to July 31, the Feast Day of St. Ignatius and the official closing date of The Ignatian Year.
The University’s Jesuit Center will host a Spirituality Luncheon for staff and faculty to commemorate the Feast of St. Ignatius and the end of The Ignatian Year on Thursday, July 26. The University will also host a ice cream social for faculty and staff on Friday, July 29, hosted by Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president, and Daniel Cosacchi, Ph.D., vice president for Mission and Ministry at the University.
In a message to the University community about the Feast Day of St. Ignatuis, Father Marina referenced a quote about The Ignatian Year by Rev. Arturo Sosa, S.J., Superior General of the Society of Jesus:
“It is good to remind ourselves that the wound Ignatius suffered in Pamplona was not so much a happy ending, but rather a happy beginning. Conversion consists sometimes of great moments of change, but it is also a never-ending process. We need to put Christ in the center every time, again and again.”
“At Scranton, … (m)ay the Ignatius 500 celebration remind us of the many ways in which we continue the work of St. Ignatius through the transformative education we provide to our students. May we continue to place God at the center of our work, our mission and our lives. May Peace be with you and all who we encounter during our journey,” said Father Marina in his message.
$content.getChild('content').textValueUniversity Celebrates Closing of Ignatian Year
Twenty rising high school students entered The University of Scranton’s University of Success program. The four-year, pre-college mentorship program began for the new participants with a two-week summer institute, which took place on the University’s campus in July.
The University of Success is an academic and enrichment program designed to provide academic, social, and cultural enrichment to area high school students. The program’s ultimate goal is to assist participating students to successfully complete high school and gain entrance into a college or university. Students enter the program at the completion of the eighth grade and continue through their high school years.
The summer institute provides learning experiences designed to engage the students in creative thinking, problem solving and communication through activities that expose students to concepts in various academic disciples.
The summer program featured presentations by University faculty, staff and students as well as counselors from Lackawanna County Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center. At the institute, students learned about alternate renewable energy sources, sustainability, climate change, physics, biology and chemistry, among other topics. The institute included field trips to Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) in Pike County and the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. The students also volunteered for a cleanup project at the Children’s Advocacy Center.
Following the summer institute, the students meet monthly throughout their four years in high school.
The University of Success, offered free of charge to participants, is funded almost entirely by corporate and foundation grants. Donors to the program include Dime Bank, Fidelity Bank, Carl and JoAnne Kuehner, Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials, Inc., Overlook Foundation, Peoples Security Bank and Trust, PPL Foundation, Lisa C. Thomas, M.D., and Waste Management.
Students entering the University of Success program are as follows:
Royli Jesus Ayala, Scranton, who attended South Scranton Intermediate School;
Isidora Berrios, Moscow, who attended North Pocono Intermediate School;
Makenna Boozer, Dickson City, who attended Mid Valley Secondary Center;
Anthony Campbell, Dickson City, who attended Mid Valley Secondary Center;
Sophia Chen, Milford, who attended Delaware Valley Middle School;
Trent Coffield, Moosic, who attended Riverside Junior Senior High School;
Corey Condon, Dunmore, who attended Dunmore School District School;
Luis Angel Espino, Scranton, who attended North East Intermediate School;
Vishwa Gandhi, Moosic, who attended Riverside Junior Senior High School;
Lucianna Gonzalez, Clarks Summit, who attended Abington Heights Middle School;
Joshua Miranda, Clarks Summit, who attended Abington Heights Middle School;
Eleany Sarai Nunez-Pazos, Scranton, who attended South Scranton Intermediate School;
Engel Ovalles, Scranton, who attended South Scranton Intermediate School;
K’lea Palukonis, Clarks Summit, who attended Abington Heights Middle School;
Yadhira Panamo, Scranton, who attended West Scranton Intermediate School;
Juan Ramos, Scranton, who attended West Scranton Intermediate School;
Elias Rios, Scranton, who attended West Scranton Intermediate School;
Brandon Sanchez, Scranton, who attended West Scranton Intermediate School;
Nmesoma Clare Udoye, Scranton, who attended South Scranton Intermediate School;
Laylah Weeks, Clarkes Green, who attended Abington Heights Middle School;
For additional information, visit the University of Success web site.
$content.getChild('content').textValueTwenty Area Students Begin University of Success
Nearly 60 members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2022 participated in the Jesuit school’s Donning of the Stole Ceremony. The annual ceremony celebrates and honors the accomplishments of members of its class of 2022 from underrepresented identities who received their undergraduate degrees. The purpose of the ceremony, which was a student-led initiative, was to highlight the students’ success in overcoming the particular barriers and obstacles faced by students from these groups, particularly students of color, in attaining a higher education.
More than 70 percent of Scranton’s class of 2022 Stole recipients made the Dean’s List at Scranton. The students honored include a Fulbright scholar, outstanding academic and leadership achievement award recipients, future physicians, physical therapists, engineers and many other highly-successful members of the University’s graduating class.
The ceremony, organized by the student committee members and Jose Sanchez, assistant director of the University’s Cross Cultural Centers, took place on campus in May as part of Scranton’s commencement activities and events.
Members of Scranton’s class of 2022 honored at the event were:
Tiannah N. Adams, New York, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology;
Sophia V. Alderman, Oreland, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology;
Kayla A. Alvero, Yonkers, New York, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in strategic communication;
Kyla L. Avant, Bridgeton, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in occupational therapy;
Ariana I. Baldwin, Far Rockaway, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice;
Jill M. Bautista, Philadelphia, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in health administration;
Allysa A. Belches, Dumont, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in kinesiology;
Alexander M. Belotte, Elmont, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in international business;
Taysha V. Campana, North Bergen, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business analytics;
Destiny R. Carpitella, Brooklyn, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in early and primary teacher education;
Claire J. Carrera, North Bergen, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology;
Noemi Carreto, Scranton, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry;
Colleen R. Chan, East Brunswick, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing;
Hunter E. Chin, Northport, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration;
Alison M. D’Mello, East Brunswick, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in social media strategies;
Koebe S. Diaz, Dumont, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology;
Christopher D. Gentles-Steele, New Rochelle, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration;
Sophia Li Gonzalez, Mount Pocono, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience;
Vincent Gonzalez, Bedminster, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in advertising/public relations;
Nadia T. Green, Philadelphia, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration;
Branden Gual, New York, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in finance;
Caitlin G. Hariprasad, Tobyhanna, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology;
Felicia K. Harris, Orem, Utah, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology;
Zeruiah I. Harris, Saylorsburg, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in forensic chemistry;
Steve Holguin, Bethlehem, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering;
Natalie J. Intrieri, North Salem, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in counseling and human services;
Bianca J. Jimenez, Bronx, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental science;
Ryan J. Lebron, East Stroudsburg, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics;
Abril Lopez, Scranton, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice andphilosophy;
Ximena G. Maldonado Aguilar, Scranton, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in advertising/public relations;
Julissa Mercedes, Scranton, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in finance;
Myriam A. Moise, Warwick, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience;
Patricia Denille Gonzales Nicolas, Middlesex, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience;
Crysta A. O’Donnell, Riegelsville, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in international studies andHispanic studies;
AnnMarie N. Onwuka, Newburgh, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology;
Bansariben Patel, Scranton, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology;
Riya A. Patel, Scranton, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology;
Sinal Y. Patel, Scranton, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physiology;
Vrunda A. Patel, Scranton, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology;
Brianna M. Phillips, Manchester, Connecticut, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology;
Tianna S. Popstein, Port Jervis, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing;
Katia Ramirez, Forest Park, Georgia, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history andHispanic studies;
Laura Rebolledo, Branchburg, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology;
Ysobelle F. Reyes, Somerville, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology;
Katherine A. Rodrigo, South Plainfield, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting andphilosophy;
Joshua Jose I. Romero, Newark, Delaware, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science;
Amanda Grace M. Ruiz, Whippany, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in occupational therapy;
Paola V. Santa Rosario, Scranton, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physiology;
Krista M. Segreti, Danbury, Connecticut, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience;
Alex O. Sophabmixay, Scranton, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology;
Myles T. Spencer, Brooklyn, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in computer information systems;
Danielle E. Taglucop, Berlin, Connecticut, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in occupational therapy;
Aman-Preet Talawan, Carteret, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing;
Ethan O. Techitong, Koror, Palau, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English;
Haylle B. Thomas, Stanhope, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology;
Catherine I. Torres, Hazleton, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing;
Miguel Augusto G. Valencia, Farmingdale, New York, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in social media strategies.
Additional information about each Stole recipient can be seen on their Merit page. The full ceremony can be seen here.
$content.getChild('content').textValueUniversity Celebrates Donning of the Stole Ceremony
The University of Scranton received an $11,000 Community Needs grant from the Scranton Area Community Foundation to support a program that helps teens and young adults who are living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Northeastern Pennsylvania achieve their employment aspirations.
The free program, called the Job Club, will be offered each semester on campus by the University’s Rehabilitation Counseling faculty and graduate students.
Through the program, motivated teens, who are age 16 or older, and young adults with ASD will develop the necessary technical and soft skills to prepare them to secure meaningful employment. Learning modules include skill development in a variety of related topics and activities, such as setting employment goals, creating resumes, employment soft skills, completing applications, practicing interviewing skills, understanding/starting the job-hunting process and what to expect on your first day of work. The program will be customized to participants to meet their individual needs.
The Scranton Area Community Foundation is a public 501(c)(3) community foundation with assets of more than $57 million and more than 260 charitable funds. Visit www.safdn.org to learn more.
Grant Supports Job Club Program for People with ASD
The University of Scranton’s Board of Trustees have approved the change of the doctoral business administration degree to a Ph.D. in Accounting degree beginning with the 2022-2023 academic year. The curriculum and degree requirements will remain the same. This is the first Ph.D. degree to be offered at Scranton.
The business doctoral degree, which the University began in 2017 and graduated its first cohort of students in 2021, has already been internationally recognized when in 2019 the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) listed the program among the “Innovations and Best Practices in Canada, Latin America and the United States.” The program was recognized for providing a non-traditional research doctoral degree in accounting that “promotes diversity and practice relevance by providing a flexible path for experienced practitioners to gain the knowledge and credentials required to succeed in tenure-track positions at AACSB-accredited institutions.”
“The doctoral program was developed in direct response to calls made by the Pathways Commission to transform experienced accounting professionals into exceptional academics and teachers capable of producing original-practice relevant research grounded in the ethical foundation of Scranton’s Jesuit identity,” said Douglas M. Boyle, D.B.A., C.P.A., C.M.A., professor and chair of the University’s Accounting Department and Ph.D. program director
“As co-chair of the Implementation Phase of Pathways, the Accounting Ph.D. at The University of Scranton is exactly what we hope institutions would strive to create,” said Mark Higgins, Ph.D., Dean of the Kania School of Management. “We wanted institutions to create terminal degrees that align with an institutions mission and this program does that by incorporating Jesuit values and producing graduates that are capable of publishing in relevant practiced based research in quality journals.”
The first and second cohorts of doctoral graduates and faculty have already co-authored and published more than 20 manuscripts in internationally recognized refereed journals with six of the publications winning awards from the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), including two Lybrand Competition Medals and the Curtis C. Verschoor Ethics Article of the Year. Gregory Kogan ’22 and Joy Chacko ’21 were awarded the Institute of Internal Auditors Michael J. Barrett Doctoral Dissertation Award for their respective years.
Scranton’s accounting professors in the program have received numerous awards for teaching and have also been recognized internationally for their research. The 2021 Brigham Young University Accounting Report Update, which annually ranks accounting programs and faculty throughout the world based on their success in publishing in top-tier accounting journals, placed the Accounting Department at The University of Scranton as the fourth most prolific department in the world for accounting education research (excluding cases) over the most recent six-year period. The department was also ranked internationally for all methods, audit and experimental accounting research.
With respect to authorships of individual accounting faculty in the area of accounting education reported in the 2021 Update: Dr. Douglas Boyle, was ranked No. 7; and James F. Boyle, D.B.A., C.P.A., associate professor and director of the MAcc program, and Brian W. Carpenter, Ph.D., professor, ranked No. 18 (tied).
The doctoral program, housed in the University’s Kania School of Management, also engages renowned scholars from other institutions to advise and serve on dissertation committees. These esteemed faculty members include George W. Krull, Jr., Ph.D., external global strategic advisor for the doctoral program, Dr. Krull served as a partner in the executive office of Grant Thornton LLP and was the firm’s chief learning officer. He has served as an executive-in-residence and professor of accounting at Bradley University where he was awarded emeritus status in 2011. During his distinguished career, Dr. Krull has served with the American Accounting Association (AAA), the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Pathways Commission. He was a member of the AACSB International’s Blue Ribbon Committee on Accreditation Quality and has served four terms on the AACSB’s Accounting Accreditation Committee. In 2014, Dr. Krull was recognized as one of one hundred distinguished graduates of Spears School at Oklahoma State during its centennial anniversary celebration, and in 2015 he was inducted into the Spears School Hall of Fame. In 2016, he received the American Accounting Association Outstanding Service Award.
Students currently enrolled in the program and students entering the program for fall 2023 will receive a Ph.D. degree.
For additional information about Scranton’s first Ph.D. program, visit the program’s webpage or contact the Accounting Department at the University at 570-941-4047 or Caitlyn Hollingshead,
Scranton to Offer First Ph.D. Degree
Sarah Kenehan, Ph.D., a University of Scranton alumna and former professor of philosophy at Marywood University, was named executive director of the Gail and Francis Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities, effective July 5.
Since joining the faculty at Marywood University in 2009, Dr. Kenehan has taught courses in business, environmental and animal ethics, and global, climate and food justice. She served as the chair of Marywood’s Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, director of their Women’s Studies Program, and was the co-founder and co-chair of Pacers for Justice and Peace. She also served on dozens of other committees, including the Rank and Tenure Committee and Student Evaluation of Teaching Task Force.
As a scholar, Dr. Kenehan has studied extensively the works of John Bordley Rawls, an American moral and political philosopher in the liberal tradition, and has published three books on climate justice: “Climate Justice and Feasibility: Normative Theorizing, Feasibility Constraints, and Climate Action” (Rowman Littlefield International, 2021); “Climate Justice and Feasibility: Principles of Justice and Real-World Climate Politics” (Rowman Littlefield International, 2021); and “Food, Environment, and Climate: Justice at the Intersections” (Rowman Littlefield International, 2018). She has published numerous articles on academic journals, contributed to book chapters, and presented at more than 30 international, national and regional conferences and meetings.
Dr. Kenehan earned her bachelor’s degree in biology and philosophy from Scranton in 2002 as a member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. She was a member of the Women’s Cross Country Team at Scranton. She also earned her master’s degree from the University of Tennessee, and her Ph.D. from the University of Graz in Austria.
Executive Director of Slattery Center Named
University of Scranton student, Alex Chan ’23, Wilkes-Barre, was awarded a 2022 Huayu Enrichment Chinese Language Immersion Scholarship from the Education Division of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York. The scholarship will allow him to study at Fu Jen Catholic University, a Jesuit university in Taipei, Taiwan, during the summer.
The scholarship was established in 2005 by Ministry of Education of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to encourage international students and individuals to study the Mandarin Chinese language in Taiwan.
A dean’s list student at Scranton, Chan is a neuroscience major with a concentration in Asian studies and a member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program. He was inducted to the University’s Asian Studies Honor Society.
Chan is a graduate of Holy Redeemer High School.
Chan is the second Scranton student to be awarded the Huayu Enrichment Scholarship since 2020. Mary-Katherine Cotter ’22, Massapequa, New York, received the scholarship in 2021.
With support from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, the University has strengthened its Chinese language program and hosted numerous events that showcase and educate members of the University and greater Scranton community about Taiwanese culture. During the past decade, the University has hosted a Taiwan Bangzi Opera Company performance of an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice;” the Taiwanese Film and Cultural Festival; and performances by the Taiyuan Puppet Theatre Company and the Chai Found Music Workshop, among other enrichment and educational events.
In 2012, the University was formally presented with the Kinmen Peace Bell Replica by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York in recognition of the cordial relationship and collaboration between the University and the various government agencies and universities of Taiwan. The Peace Bell, engraved with the word “peace” in more than 100 languages, can be seen in the atrium of the Loyola Science Center.
Student Wins Chinese Language Immersion Scholarship
The Broadway Green Alliance, an industry-wide initiative founded in 2008 to educate and encourage the theatre community to implement environmentally friendlier practices, featured The University of Scranton Players in its community spotlight in the spring semester.
The sustainability efforts of the University Players were highlighted through the Broadway Green Alliance social media network, which includes Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The post included a quote from University student Samantha Burton, a theatre major from Jamesville, New York, and the University’s student Green Captain for the Alliance, which provides Captains at colleges and universities with resources for greening collegiate theatre productions.
“The theatre program at The University of Scranton has incorporated sustainable practices even before the current trend. Faculty, guest artists and students have long been encouraged to reuse scenic elements and incorporate a ‘trash into treasure’ philosophy of scenic, costume and prop décor, and have tried to institute sustainable best practices in all production areas,” said Burton in the social media post.
The University Players have incorporated green initiatives into their productions for more than two decades. Early sustainable theatre examples include the program’s inventive reuse of cardboard carpet tubing and discarded carpet to create life-like trees for the setting of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” production in 2002. The “trees” were subsequently “harvested” to create a log fishing cabin for the Player’s 2002 production of “The Foreigner.” Rich Larsen, who had served as director of the Theatre Program at Scranton for many years, received the University’s Provost’s Award in 2007 for Excellence in Integrating Sustainability in the Curriculum in recognition of the Theatre Program’s many green initiatives.
Sustainability efforts continue at the University today. Scranton is among just 100 colleges with an active College Green Captain Program.
The University of Scranton Players is an academic Theatre Program that brings exceptional theatre to Northeastern Pennsylvania every season. The Players’ productions feature University of Scranton students in a mix of classical and contemporary works under the direction and mentorship of award-winning faculty and guest artists.
University Players Recognized for Green Initiatives
More than 1,700 students were named to The University of Scranton’s Dean’s List for the 2022 spring semester. In addition, students were added to the Dean’s List for the 2021 fall semester after the list was published in January.
The Dean’s List recognizes students for academic excellence. A student must have a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a minimum number of credit hours during the semester to make the Dean’s List. The list includes students from the Jesuit university’s College of Arts and Sciences, Kania School of Management and Panuska College of Professional Studies.
University Announces Dean’s List Students
The Scranton Club of Philadelphia will hold a gathering Sept. 8 at Independence Beer Garden, 100 S Independence Mall W, Philadelphia, at 6 p.m. The $30 registration fee includes a drink ticket, appetizers and a Scranton giveaway. To register, visit this link.
Scranton Club To Meet At Independence Beer Garden Sept. 8
Join your fellow graduates of the last decade (G.O.L.D.) in the Hoboken area Aug. 4 at Pier 13, 1301 Sinatra Dr N, Hoboken, NJ, at 6:30 p.m. for a summer evening on the pier! The $10 registration fee includes a drink ticket and a Scranton giveaway. To register, visit this link.
Scranton G.O.L.D. To Meet At Pier 13 Aug. 4
Join your fellow graduates of the last decade (G.O.L.D.) in the Philadelphia area July 21 at Morgan's Pier, 221 N Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, at 6 p.m. for a summer evening to remember! The $20 admission fee includes a drink ticket, appetizers and a Scranton giveaway. To register, visit this link.
Scranton G.O.L.D. To Meet At Morgan's Pier July 21
The Scranton Club of New York will meet at Yankee Stadium Aug. 17 to watch the New York Yankees take on the Tampa Bay Rays.
The game will begin at 7:05 p.m., and gates will open at 5:30 p.m. The club will hold a pre-game reception on the Budweiser Party Deck featuring 90 minutes of food, draft beer, and non-alcoholic beverages, all of which will be included in the price of admission. Tickets will cost $75.
To register, visit this link.
Reminder: Scranton Club of NY To Meet At Yankee Game Aug. 17
The Scranton Club of New Jersey will host a Day At The Races at Monmouth Park Racetrack July 24.
Alumni, parents and friends of the University are invited to enjoy a day at the track in the Reserved Picnic Area. In addition to betting on the horses, this family-friendly event will include a picnic barbecue, playground, live music and more. Gates will open at 11:30 a.m. Tickets for adults 13 and over will cost $26, tickets for children ages 6-12 will cost $13, and children under 6 will receive free admission.
To register, visit this link.
Register Today For A Day At The Races July 24
On June 27, the University honored Tony Rice, Notre Dame legend and quarterback of the 1988 National Championship Team, with the 2022 Peter A. Carlesimo Award at the annual Carlesimo Golf Tournament & Award Dinner at Canoe Brook Country Club in Summit, New Jersey.
The event raised more than $100,000 for Scranton Athletics. Quandel Construction Group served as the event’s title sponsor. To see photos from the event, visit this link.
“This is one of my favorite days of the year,” said Dave Martin, executive director of Athletics at the University and the event’s master of ceremonies, prior to the beginning of the meal. “Thanks to all the incredible support in this room, we once again were able to exceed our goals.”
Martin then introduced the evening’s speakers: Bridget Monaghan ’24, a three-year starter on the Lady Royals majoring in business administration; the Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., the twenty-ninth president of The University of Scranton; and basketball legend P.J. Carlesimo, the eldest son of the former University athletic director the award is named after.
“My experience as a member of the Lady Royals will be something I will cherish forever,” Monaghan said. “Thank you for all that you do for Scranton Athletics.”
Father Marina spoke next, sharing some of the 2021-2022 academic year’s athletic highlights.
“We gather here to celebrate our players, our student-athletes and our wonderful staff who had another incredibly successful year in the Landmark Conference and the NCAA,” he said. “We captured three conference championships and saw four teams advance to the national tournament. Twenty-one out of 23 teams participated in post-season play. That’s amazing. We continued to strengthen and enhance the Royal Way program, which provides a glimpse into the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola from an athlete’s perspective.”
After dinner, Carlesimo said his father would have appreciated honoring Rice.
“Tony, he legitimately would be thrilled, more so for what you’ve done off the field,” he said. “You were a great, great player, but what you’ve done since graduation at Notre Dame (is) even more impressive.”
After receiving the award, Rice expressed his gratitude for a number of significant people in his life, including the grandmother who raised him, legendary Notre Dame Football Coach Lou Holtz, and Jim ’90 and Kerry ’90 Conmy, who serve with Rice on the Board of Directors of Patrick’s Pals Foundation, a nonprofit that provides children and young adults with multiple disabilities with equipment and therapies. The Conmys founded Patrick’s Pals in honor of their son, Patrick, a 19-year-old boy who was born with many special needs which left him unable to do many things for himself.
“For me to get this award, it’s not about me, it’s about someone that pointed me in the right direction,” Rice said. “They gave me an opportunity to do something with myself.”
Near the end of his remarks, Rice gestured to the purple Scranton baseball cap he had been wearing since he received the award and made a surprising admission.
“I’ve never worn any hat of another college, just Notre Dame,” he said. “Notre Dame will be there forever, Scranton will be there forever, too.
“Go Royals, go Irish, let’s go Scranton.”
About the honoree
Tony Rice made a name for himself on the gridiron while leading Notre Dame to the 1988 national championship and finishing his career a year later with a 31-4 record as the signal caller for the Fighting Irish. He was named an All-American and the recipient of the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award as the nation’s top upperclassmen quarterback following his senior season.
Rice piloted Notre Dame to a perfect 12-0 record and the school’s eighth national title in 1988, capped by the top-ranked Fighting Irish defeating third-ranked West Virginia 34-21 in the Fiesta Bowl with Rice passing for 213 yards and two touchdowns, and adding 75 rushing yards en route to sharing MVP honors with teammate Frank Stams.
A year later, Rice nearly led the Irish to a second straight national title, but a loss to Miami in late November was Notre Dame’s only blemish on the season. The Irish rebounded to knock off top-ranked Colorado, 21-6, in the Orange Bowl with Rice tallying 149 total yards in his final collegiate game. Notre Dame finished the season ranked second in the nation.
Playing for legendary head coach Lou Holtz, Rice finished his career with 3,273 yards and 13 touchdowns through the air, and 2,049 yards and 23 touchdowns as one of the best option quarterbacks in college football history.
After completing his college career, Rice played one season for the Canadian Football League’s Saskatchewan Roughriders, two seasons with the Barcelona Dragons of the World League and one season for Munich Thunder in the Football League of Europe in 1994.
Off the field, Rice has served on the board of the Patrick’s Pals Foundation for several years. Since its founding, Patrick’s Pals has raised more than $1 million to help families in need.
A native of South Carolina who now lives in Chicago, Rice is also active in the D.A.R.E. program, working to keep kids off drugs and away from gangs and violent behavior. He works closely with Pop Warner youth football teams, making visits and speaking to young athletes. He’s also involved in the annual Walter Camp Weekend, where current and former stars gather to celebrate Walter Camp’s legacy and complete community service work, including virtual hospital visits.
Rice also remains active at Notre Dame and in the South Bend area, regularly participating in Notre Dame alumni events while also working with the Center for the Homeless in South Bend and South Bend LOGAN Community Resources, Inc., which serves adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
About the event
Since 2011, the Peter A. Carlesimo Award has been presented to someone who has made special contributions to athletics and Catholic education. The Golf Tournament & Award Dinner serves as a fundraising event to support and enhance the student-athlete experience at The University of Scranton. For more information, visit scranton.edu/carlesimoaward.
University Honors Tony Rice With Carlesimo Award
Hundreds of Royals returned to campus to make new memories with old friends at Reunion 2022 June 11-12. Visit this link to see photos from the celebration.
Alumni Return For Reunion 2022
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Marion Munley ’83, Moosic, recently presented at Northeast PA Trial Lawyers Association’s Personal Injury Seminar on “Auto Law Update and the Impact of New Joint and Several Liability Case Law PLUS Using Electronic Evidence to Prove your Case.”
Richard W. Peuser ’86, G’87, Brookeville, Maryland, became the director, Processing and Release Division, National Declassification Center, Archives II, College Park, Maryland, National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) in September 2021. Peuser began his career at NARA in July 1988.
Jennifer Miller Koehl, VMD '04, State College, was appointed assistant teaching professor and program coordinator for the Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences undergraduate major at the Pennsylvania State University.
Erica Fischer-Cartlidge ’06, Springfield, New Jersey, was appointed to the role of chief clinical officer of the Oncology Nursing Society.
Lauren E. Lefevre ’10, Ewing, New Jersey, joined the firm Florio Perrucci Steinhardt Cappelli Tipton & Taylor LLC in their Education Law and Municipal Law Practices Group. Lefevre assists school board and municipal clients in a wide range of matters including day-to-day legal issues, labor and employment, discipline and harassment, governance, OPRA, and public contracting,
Zachary R. Morano ’15, Wayne, has joined the firm Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin as an associate in the firm’s Real Estate and Land Use Department.
Lorenzo Antonio Singotti ’17, Duryea, recently graduated from Marywood University with a Master of Social Work degree. Singotti recently accepted a position with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a social worker in the Emergency Department at the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center.
MARRIAGES
Elizabeth McCabe ’14 to William Stallone ’14
BIRTHS
A daughter, Sofia Lucy, to William ’08 and Ashley Miller Colona ’09, Teaneck, New Jersey
DEATHS
John M. O’Connor ’51, Falmouth, Massachusetts
Joseph N. Demko, Sr., M.D. ’54, Scranton
Robert F. Duffy ’57, Rockville, Maryland
Robert T. Kelly ’58, H’93, Jessup
John F. Callahan, D.O.’60, Dallas
Timothy L. Curtin ’60, Scranton
John F. Lepkowski ’60, Liverpool, New York
Francis R. Zuleski ’62, West Chester
Joseph R. McDonald ’72, Clarks Summit
Thomas J. Egan, D.D.S. ’65, Silver Spring, Maryland
Karl Kempter ’65, Scranton
William G. Maile ’84, Carbondale
David R. Hudachek ’02, Eagleville
Alumni Class Notes, July 2022
Michael Bermudez, Ed.D., assistant professor of occupational therapy at The University of Scranton, received the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program teaching and research award to Uganda for 2022-2023. Dr. Bermudez will spend six months working with faculty of the Special Needs and Rehabilitation Department at Kyambogo University, Kampala, Uganda, teaching undergraduate students studying in the occupational therapy and educational technology fields, as he researches “Educational Technology for Inclusive Learning in Uganda.”
Dr. Bermudez will study perceptions of college students regarding the use of educational technology before and after introducing student learning experiences with 3-D Printer and simple circuit technologies.
“I am hoping this research project will lead to a better understanding of ways to overcome barriers regarding the use and application of educational technologies that can open the doors for women and minority student populations and lead to the creation and application of education technology tools that will improve learning for people with disabilities in Uganda and other countries,” said Dr. Bermudez, who explained that many women and minority students in the US tend to be more hesitant in using technology. “Overcoming barriers of perception can release untapped potential for new applications that can then improve the lives and learning of so many others. The impact can be exponential.”
Dr. Bermudez is optimistic about the potential based on a pilot study he completed last Spring of 2022 at Scranton, through which occupational therapy students participated in small groups to use circuit boards to create their own adaptive educational tools for people with disabilities, such as communication boards.
Dr. Bermudez said some of the students at Scranton were at first apprehensive about using the technology, but their perceptions and enthusiasm towards its use changed after their classroom experience. He is hopeful he will see similar results with undergraduate students in Uganda. He will also let these students design assistive devices for children with disabilities to be produced in a 3D printer which he will bring to Uganda,
In addition to his teaching and research, Dr. Bermudez will serve in Ugandan communities to help assess the abilities of children with disabilities to participate in more inclusive education..
“Children everywhere deserve the ability to play and learn. Occupational therapy and educational technology can help them better achieve these basic human needs,” said Dr. Bermudez. “I hope to help develop ‘occupational justice’ mindsets; that is, to help ensure a person’s right to engage in activities—including participation in school or participating in activities of daily living.”
Dr. Bermudez, who joined the faculty at Scranton in 2019 after practicing in the field for nearly 20 years, said he is grateful for the support he received from the University throughout the competitive Fulbright application process.
“Despite the arduous process, I would encourage faculty to apply to this program. The Provost’s Office, the Panuska College of Professional Studies Dean’s Office, fellow faculty, staff members and my students – everyone at Scranton was helpful and encouraging throughout the process,” said Dr. Bermudez, who credits his students for recommending he look at Uganda as a location for his research.
“Some of my students knew of my interest to expand my research in educational technology beyond the United States, and suggested I consider Uganda after they returned from a service trip there,” said Dr. Bermudez.
At Kyambogo University, Dr. Bermudez will work with Eli Katunguka Rwakishaya, Ph.D., vice-chancellor; Lawrence Eron, Ph.D., dean of the Department of Special Needs and Rehabilitation; Stackus Okwaput, Ph.D. research fellow and head of the Department of Special Needs; and James Bulenzibuto, head of International Relations.
Dr. Bermudez earned his bachelor’s degrees from the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines and the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, and his master’s degree and doctorate from New Jersey City University.
Widely considered to be the premier international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government, the Fulbright program awards grants to faculty and professionals as well as to student scholars. Since 1972, a total of 127 University students have been awarded Fulbrights.
Professor Uses Fulbright to Promote Occupational Justice
Ten members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2022 have committed to post-graduation long-term service projects with nonprofit organizations and underserved populations. Their service begins this summer at programs run by the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and other organizations.
The following is a list of members of the University’s class of 2022 who committed to long-term service projects and their places of service.
Marino D. Angeloni, Jessup, will serve as a high school teacher and assist with campus ministry at Yap Caholic High School in Micronesia. Angeloni earned a Bachelor of Science degree in counseling and human services.
Victoria T. Chiulli, Scarsdale, New York, will serve as an activities coordinator as part of the Mercy Volunteer Corps at the Adult Day Program at Georgia Infirmary in Savannah, Georgia. Chiulli earned a Master of Science degree in occupational therapy.
Isaiah J. Livelsberger, Hanover, will serve with advocacy work and legal services at Casa Nazaret with the KINO Border Initiative. Livelsberger earned a Bachelor of Science degree as a double major in international studies and philosophy. He also was a member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program.
Abril Lopez, Scranton, will teach at Holy Name School in Camden, New Jersey, as an ACE Teaching Fellow with St. Joseph’ s University. Lopez earned a Bachelor of Science as a double major in criminal justice and philosophy.
Margaret R. McGrath, Drexel Hill, will serve at Little Brothers, Friends of the Elderly in Chicago, Illinois, as part of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. McGrath earned a Bachelor of Science degree as a double major in biology and philosophy. She was also a member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, its undergraduate Honors Program and its Magis Honors Program in STEM.
Emma M. Reed, Stratford, Connecticut, will serve as a high school English teacher in Baltimore, Maryland, with Operation Teach. Reed earned a Bachelor of Science degree in secondary education – English.
Molly H. Skinner, Reading, Massachusetts, will serve in learning support as part of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, Northwest, at St. Therese Catholic Academy in Seattle, Washington. Skinner earned a Master of Science in special education.
Olivia R. Stemkowski, Highland Mills, New York, will serve as an adult services coordinator at the University of Alaska at the Kuskokwim Consortium Library in Fairfax, Alaska, as part of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, Northwest. Stemkowski earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history.
Lauren P. Usaitis, Du Bois, will serve as an after school and teen programs coordinator at Girls in the Game in Chicago, Illinois, as part of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. Usaitis earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology.
Sarah V. White, Brooklyn, New York, will serve with eco-justice initiatives at the St. Joseph Justice Center Ministry in Orange County, California, for the Sisters of St. Joseph Volunteers. White earned a Bachelor of Science degree as a double major in biology and philosophy. She was a member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program and its Magis Honors Program in STEM. She was also the recipient of the University’s full-tuition Presidential Scholarship.
Nationally recognized for its commitment to service, The University of Scranton was among just 29 elite colleges in the nation selected to the Catholic Volunteer Network’s 2020 “Top Schools for Service.” was among just 361 colleges in the nation to earn the highly-respected Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching Community Engagement Classification and was among the higher education institutions named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll. Each year, more than 2,800 Scranton students volunteer for more than 175,000 hours of service.
Class of 2022 Graduates Choose Long Term Service
June
View June Listing Page
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2021 median annual wage for biochemists and biophysicists was $102, 270. Additionally, the National Institutes of Health’s Office of Science Education predicts that “the aging of the baby-boom population will likely drive demand for biophysicists involved in biomedical research.”
The University of Scranton’s Bachelor of Science in biophysics provides students with an interdisciplinary education aimed learning how to develop the critical thinking and analytical skills needed in this complex field of work. University departments that frequently collaborate with students in this program include chemistry, biology, psychology, physical therapy, occupational therapy and nursing.
With small class sizes capped at 25 to 30 students, faculty work with students on an individual basis to ensure their unique goals are being met, especially regarding research opportunities. Through optional faculty-mentored research opportunities, students can work on a variety of research topics that are of interest to them. Previous student work covered topics including haptic research, heart rate variability, biophysics of hearing and transdermal drug delivery. Previous students have also attained paid summer research experiences at Purdue University of South Florida and Rutgers University.
An undergraduate degree in biophysics prepares students to pursue advanced degrees in fields like biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, medical physics medicine, or optometry. Examples of graduate schools that have accepted recent Scranton graduates include Columbia University, Carnegie Mellon University, John Hopkins University, and The University of Pennsylvania.
While most Scranton’s biophysics majors choose to pursue additional graduate education, there are career opportunities available in the industry immediately after graduation as well.
Researching Career Possibilities with Biophysics
University of Scranton President, Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., quoted from St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order, in his welcome to the students and their families of the class of 2026.
“‘Strive after the goal to which you are called with all your might. Know that God has already supplied you with the means to achieve it. And, remember that love must always manifest itself in deeds rather than words.’ Those words are nearly five centuries old, and yet they are still relevant today as they were when St. Ignatius wrote them,” said Fr. Marina at the start of the orientation sessions for the 1,000-plus members of Scranton’s class of 2026. The University will conduct four two-day sessions for the members of its incoming class and their parents and guardians on June 21-22, 23-24, 27-28 and June 30-July 1.
Scranton’s summer orientation is designed to introduce new students and their families to the University’s procedures, facilities and support services, and to provide them with the opportunity to meet with faculty, administrators and staff, as well as each other.
Follow Scranton’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media channels for additional photos from the Orientation sessions.
$content.getChild('content').textValueMembers of Class of 2026 Begin Orientation
More than 1,700 students were named to The University of Scranton’s Dean’s List for the 2022 spring semester. The Dean’s List recognizes students for academic excellence. A student must have a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a minimum number of credit hours during the semester to make the Dean’s List. The list includes students from the Jesuit university’s College of Arts and Sciences, Kania School of Management and Panuska College of Professional Studies.
University Announces Spring 2022 Dean’s List
The following students were added to The University of Scranton Dean’s List for the fall 2021 semester after publication of the list in January of 2022.
The Dean’s List recognizes students for academic excellence during the 2021 fall semester. A student must have a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a minimum number of credit hours to make the Dean’s List. The list includes students from the Jesuit university’s College of Arts and Sciences, the Kania School of Management and the Panuska College of Professional Studies.
Students added to the fall 2021 Dean’s List are:
Students Added to Fall 2021 Dean’s List
The University is proud to be a partner at the Black Scranton Project's Juneteenth Jubilee Block Party!
Join us on Sunday, June 19 from 12-5 p.m. in North Scranton, 1902 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508-2004.
More event information is here.
To build tradition and community, the Black Scranton Project presents, for the 4th consecutive year, the JUNETEENTH JUBILEE BLOCK PARTY. Join us at the Black Scranton Project Center for Arts and Culture for music, food, games, giveaways, and more!
This year’s Juneteenth celebration emphasizes freedom and perseverance and marks the Black Scranton Project's third full year as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
**THIS EVENT IS FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Celebrate Juneteenth @ Black Scranton Project!
Celebrate and Honor World Refugee Day!
On June 18, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. longtime residents and local Scranton refugee communities are invited to come together for a time of sharing, learning, fellowship, and celebration that honors global refugees.
World Refugee Day is an annual international day, designated by the United Nations, to celebrate the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution.
The event will include cultural songs and music, refreshments, games and activities for kids and more.
Location: YMS of R Park in Scranton (18505), 1000 K ane St. (turn on Kane from Pittston Street, continue up Kane Street past the cemetery; the park will be on right side of street).
Call Tim at 484-645-0867 or email community@scranton.edu with questions.
Co-sponsors include Catholic Social Services of The Diocese of Scranton, University of Scranton, United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania, local faith-based groups as well as Friends of the Poor, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine students, and refugee communities including: Bhutanese Cultural Foundation Scranton Association and Congolese Community of Scranton.
Celebrate World Refugee Day, June 18
Summer orientation sessions for students, parents and guardians of The University of Scranton’s class of 2026 will begin next week. The University will conduct four two-day sessions for the 1,000-plus members of its incoming class and their parents on June 21-22, 23-24, 27-28 and June 30-July 1.
Scranton’s summer orientation is designed to introduce new students and their families to the University’s procedures, facilities and support services, and to provide them with the opportunity to meet with faculty, administrators and staff, as well as each other.
Student orientation team leaders Kathryn Olafson ’24 from Malvern, a secondary education –citizenship/history major and member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program; David Reese ’24 from Lebanon, New Jersey, a computer science major; and Margaret Swiderski ’23 from Farmingville, New York, a biology major, will join with University administrators, staff, faculty and nearly 60 student orientation assistants to help acquaint members of the incoming class to Scranton.
Sessions for students include information about academic life, the successful transition to college, Scranton’s inclusive community, campus life and mission and ministry, as well as smaller sessions for students to get to know each. Sessions for parents include information about academics, financial aid services, career development, mission and ministry, campus life and strategies for success. The University will also display a tribute to the class of 2026 on its four-story, Class of 2020 Gateway lighted sign on the evenings of orientation.
Fall welcome weekend for incoming students is set for Saturday and Sunday, August 27 and 28. Classes for the University’s fall semester will begin on campus on Monday, August 29.
$content.getChild('content').textValueClass of 2026 Summer Orientation Session to Begin
The University of Scranton’s Cybercrime and Homeland Security program, with support from Jacobs, the global defense and security consulting firm, will offer a free Royal’s Cyber Investigation Camp for area high school students July 12-15. Through hands-on active learning experiences and lessons by University professors and professionals working in the field of cyber intelligence and cybersecurity, participants will have a unique opportunity to explore possible career paths in the emerging, dynamic and in-demand sector.
Students in the camp will learn about cybercriminal profiling, cybersecurity countermeasures, cyber law and digital forensics through classes taught in the University’s Cyber Forensics and Cybersecurity lab. In addition to Scranton faculty, Jacobs staff members will also participate as instructors. Jacobs will also host the high school students at their office in the Washington, D.C., area on the final day of the camp.
Participation is open to students who will be in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade in fall 2022. There is no fee for students attending this camp. The priority application deadline is June 24, 2022, after which new applications will continue to be considered until spots are filled. Interested students can apply for the camp here.
The University of Scranton began to offer a bachelor’s degree in cybercrime and homeland security in the fall of 2020 and will begin to offer a master’s degree program in cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity beginning in the fall 2022. Students participating in these programs have access to hands-on programming and research opportunities offered through the University’s Center for the Analysis and Prevention of Crime.
In May, the University announced a partnership with Jacobs through which the global company will offer advice on the fast-changing field to support and keep current the University’s cyber-related undergraduate and graduate curriculum. In addition to supporting the summer Royal Cyber Investigation Camp, Jacobs will also be a source of internships for University students and a source of job placement for University graduates.
For more information or questions about the Royal Cyber Investigation Camp, please contact Michael Jenkins, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Criminology, at Michael.Jenkins@scranton.edu or 570-941-6170.
Free Cyber Investigation Camp Planned for July 12-15
Twenty-one high school students completed The University of Scranton’s University of Success program, a multi-year, an academic and enrichment program that is designed for high school students to develop the skills needed to successfully gain acceptance to college. All of the graduates have plan to continue their education post-secondary schools, with 19 already committing to colleges, universities and trade schools.
The University of Success, offered free of charge to participants, is funded almost entirely by corporate and foundation grants. Donors to the program include Dime Bank, Fidelity Bank, Carl and JoAnne Kuehner, Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials, Inc., Overlook Foundation, Peoples Security Bank and Trust, PPL Foundation, Lisa C. Thomas, M.D., and Waste Management.
Students enter the University of Success at the completion of the eighth grade and continue through their four years of high school. The program offers enrichment courses in study skills, SAT prep, public speaking, math, science, art and cultural activities, as well as financial aid and wellness seminars.
The following is a list of 2022 University of Success graduates, the high school they attended, and their post-high school plans.
Rebecca Coldwell of Taylor, who graduated from Riverside Junior/Senior High School, plans to attend The University of Scranton and major in physiology in the pre-medical and pre-health professions program.
Elisha De Souza of Blakely, who graduated from Valley View High School, plans to attend The University of Scranton and will pursue a major in business.
Anthony Diaz of Scranton, who graduated from West Scranton High School, plans to attend Baldwin Wallace University in Ohio and major in biology in the pre-veterinary program.
Shane Frank of Taylor, who graduated from Riverside Junior/Senior High School, plans to attend Juniata College and major in physics.
Adriana Gentle of Tunkhannock, who graduated from Tunkhannock Area High School, plans to attend Pennsylvania State University, Wilkes-Barre. She has not yet declared a major.
Caillou Kaneski of Tunkhannock, who graduated from Tunkhannock Area High School, plans to attend The University of Scranton and major in mathematics and computer science.
Emily Kogan of Moscow, who graduated from North Pocono High School, plans to attend the University of Pittsburgh and major in chemistry.
Samuel Anthony Loukopoulos of Scranton, who graduated from Scranton High School, plans to attend Lackawanna College. He has not yet declared a major.
Logan Matone of Throop, who graduated from Mid Valley Secondary Center, plans to attend The University of Scranton and major in electrical or mechanical engineering.
Mikayla Mendez of Taylor, who graduated from Riverside Junior/Senior High School, plans to attend Georgia State University and major in early and primary education.
Liam Misko of Carbondale, who graduated from Carbondale Area Junior Senior High School, plans to attend Kentucky Welding Institute for pipeline fabrication.
Andrea Murphy of Milford, who graduated from Delaware Valley High School, plans to attend an online university to study real estate.
Corey Ortiz of Bushkill, who graduated from Norte Dame High School, plans to attend Pennsylvania State University, main campus, and major in computer science.
Yeraiza Pena of Scranton, who graduated from Scranton High School, plans to attend The University of Scranton and major in international business.
Ritu Regmi of Scranton, who graduated from Scranton High School, plans to attend Marywood University in the pre-physician assistant program.
Mahnoor Sami of Jessup, who graduated from Valley View High School, plans to attend Marywood University in the pre-physician assistant program.
Victoria Scarpati of Lake Ariel, who graduated from Western Wayne High School, plans to attend the University of New Haven. She has not yet declared a major.
Jordan Traver of Friendville, who graduated from Montrose Area Junior Senior High School, plans to attend The University of Scranton and major in nursing.
Mayra Suely Varela of Taylor, who graduated from Riverside Junior/Senior High School, plans to attend Marywood University and major in nursing.
John Edgardo Velazguez of Scranton, who graduated from West Scranton High School, plans to attend Kutztown University and major in physics/astronomy.
Pavel Vorozilchak of Blakely, who graduated from Valley View High School, has not yet committed to a college or university. He is interested in studying political science, Spanish or business.
Additional information about the program can be found on the University of Success web site.
Students Graduate from the University of Success
The University of Scranton awarded faculty development summer grants for 2022 to 11 faculty members.
Roxana A. Curiel, Ph.D., assistant professor of world languages and cultures, received a grant to research “De muxe a muxe: Mueidad and the Third Gender in Zapotec Culture.” She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree (2012) from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and a Ph.D. (2016) in Peninsular and Mexican Literature and Cultures from the University of California, Riverside. Dr. Curiel has worked for the University since 2020.
Roy Domenico, Ph.D., professor and chair of the History Department, received a grant to research “Two Worlds: Italo-American Cultural Relations and the Cold War.” He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, a master’s degree from the University of Connecticut and a Ph.D. from Rutgers University. Dr. Domenico has worked for the University since 1997.
Christopher Fremaux, Ph.D., assistant professor of philosophy, received a grant to research “Crusisu’s Guide to Living Rationally: A Translation Report.” He earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas, a master’s degree from Boston College and a Ph.D. from the State University of New York, Stony Brook. Dr. Fremaux has worked for the University since 2020.
Madeline B. Gangnes, Ph.D., assistant professor of English and theatre, received a grant to research “Young Folks and Victorian Illustrated Periodicals.” She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Puget Sound, a master’s degree from the University of Dundee in Scotland and a Ph.D. from the University of Florida. Dr. Gangnes has worked for the University since 2020.
Emily Hopkins, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology, received a grant to research “Shared storybook reading as an educational tool in early childhood.” She earned a bachelor’s degree from Brown University and a master’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of Virginia. Dr. Hopkins has worked for the University since 2018.
JoyAnna S. Hopper, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science and co-director of the University’s Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service, received a grant to research “Environmental Condition and State Environmental Agency Approval.” She earned a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University and a master’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of Missouri. Dr. Hopper has worked for the University since 2020.
David Ingber, Ph.D., faculty specialist in the Biology Department, received a grant to research “Effects of Corn Herbivory-Induced Plant Volatiles (HIPVs) on Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugpiderda Smith) Oviposition Choice.” He earned a a bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York, Oswego, a master’s degree in entomology from Iowa State University and a Ph.D. from the University of Delaware. Dr. Ingber has worked for the University since 2019.
Michael Knies, professor, Weinberg Memorial Library, received a grant to research “The Impact of Linotype Technology on the British Typefounding Industry, 1896-1910. ‘The lino is killing us.’” He earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree from Rutgers University. He has worked for the University since 1996.
Declan Mulhall, Ph.D., professor of physics and engineering, received a grant to research “NMR Detector with electronic frequency control.” He earned a bachelor’s degree from Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, and a master’s degree and Ph.D. from Michigan State University. Dr. Mulhall has worked for the University since 2004.
Paul Sampson, Ph.D., assistant professor of history, received a grant to research “Ventilating the Empire: Environmental Machines in Britain 1700-1850.” He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Dallas, a master’s degree from Marquette University, and his Ph.D., from Rutgers University. Dr. Sampson has worked for the University since 2020.
Matthew Shea, Ph.D., assistant professor of philosophy, received a grant to research “God and Happiness.” He received a bachelor’s degree from Boston College and a Ph.D. from Boston College. Dr. Shea has worked for the University since 2020.
Summer Faculty Development Grants Awarded
The University of Scranton SBDC offers educational programs and guidance as part of a microgrant program for new small business in the City of Scranton located in low-moderate-income demographic areas. The first businesses were granted funds through this program recently: Electric City Cuts and Fades and Pilgers’ Pastrie.
The funds are awarded to the city through the Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program from the Housing and Urban Development Administration (HUD).
The CDBG Small Business Micro-Grant Program for new or early-stage businesses located in Scranton’s low-moderate-income demographic areas (LMA) will supply funds ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 per business through 2022 to assist with start-up costs, thus contributing to their initial success and continued revitalization of our community. Final applications for the microgrants must include a referral form from the SBDC, available after completing the required educational program series and/or business consulting and demonstrating appropriate business planning in accordance with program guidelines.
Qualifying businesses can find an application on the City of Scranton website.
Lisa Hall Zielinski, director of the SBDC at The University of Scranton, joined Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti, at an event to announce the recipients of two microgrants awarded through the program.
The SBDC at The University of Scranton is housed in the Kania School of Management.
SBDC Offers Businesses Educational Support
Author Nicole Eustace, Ph.D., the winner of the 2022 Pulitzer Prize in History for her book “Covered with Night,” spoke at The University of Scranton in May, as part of National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) supported “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” Project. She drew from the central themes of her award-winning book in her presentation titled “Murder and Mercy: A Colonial Encounter in the Susquehanna Valley.” The talk by Dr. Eustace, a professor of history at New York University, was related to the “Scranton’s Story” project’s third theme: “The Indigenous History of Northeast Pennsylvania.”
The lecture, and a second talk titled “Removal and the Right to Remain in the United States,” by Samantha Seeley, Ph.D., associate professor of history at the University of Richmond, at which took place in May the Albright Memorial Library, were sponsored by the University’s Slattery Center for the Ignatian Humanities, History Department and Office of Community Relations; and community partners the Black Scranton Project, Lackawanna County Arts and Culture Department, Lackawanna Historical Society, Scranton Public Library, and WVIA.
“Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” seeks to capture the unique narrative of Scranton and relate it to the history of the United States prior to the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The project will incorporate eight themes over a two-year period, including how Scranton has been portrayed in the popular imagination, its industrial era growth, Indigenous history, religious tapestry, diverse immigrant populations – past and present – and the role it played in the Underground Railroad and Black history. Both lectures in May relate to the project’s third theme: “The Indigenous History of Northeast Pennsylvania.”
$content.getChild('content').textValuePulitzer Prize Winning Author Speaks at Scranton
More than 300 students in grades five to 12 from Northeast Pennsylvania, New York and Singapore participated in The University of Scranton Earth Day Essay Contest this year. Awards were announced at the University’s Evening of Environmental Science Event on campus in April.
“Some teachers are very connected with doing projects related to sustainability and the environment. They pass this along to their students and put a lot of work into ensuring that the essays submitted by their students are done very well,” said Mark Murphy, director of the Office of Sustainability at the University, about the quality of the record number of essays received this year for the contest.
University students who work in the Jesuit school’s Office of Sustainability reviewed the essays submitted, in addition to organizing the award ceremony. University students participating in the ceremony and helping with the event were: Nathaniel Smith, Wilkes-Barre, a neuroscience major and member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM, who served as MC for the award presentation; Emily Burgers, an environmental science major from Woodland Park, New Jersey; Meghan Caffrey, an English major from Wilkes-Barre; Angela Hudock, a biochemistry, cell and molecular biology major from Sayre; Matthew Kinback, a 2021 graduate of The University of Scranton and current graduate student at the University from Factoryville; Sam Marranca, a history major from Pittston and member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program; Michael Quinnan, a biomathematics major from Shavertown and a member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM; Karla Shaffer, a political science major from Doylestown; and Emma Warras, an environmental science major from Kinnelon, New Jersey.
This year’s essay theme was “We Are All Connected.”
Three of the four fifth-grade essay contest winners were from Dallas Intermediate High School in Luzerne County. Carley Knorr won first place, Callie Comstock won second place, and Ryan Ricardo, who tied for third place with Alec G. from All Saints Academy in Scranton.
The sixth-grade essay contest winners were Emma DeSanto, first place, from Holy Rosary in Duryea; Nicholas Ardolino, second place, from Bay Academy in Brooklyn, New York; and Devin Rong, also from Bay Academy, tied for third place with Alex Rosencrance from Holy Rosary.
The seventh-grade essay contest winners were: Maggie Butler from St. Clare/St. Paul’s in Scranton, who tied with Maeve Judge from Howard Gardner Multiple Intelligence Charter School in Scranton for first place; Edie Hann from Northeast Intermediate School who tied with Cole G. from All Saints Academy, Scranton, for second place, and Matthew Cohen from Howard Gardner Multiple Intelligence Charter School who tied with Edwin Camacho from West Scranton Intermediate School for third place.
The eighth-grade essay contest winners were: Mckayla White, first place, Howard Gardner Multiple Intelligence Charter School, and Justin Gao and Briana Huang, tied for second place, both from Bay Academy. Both third place winners, Kayla V. and Cleo D., were from All Saints Academy.
The ninth-10th grade essay contest winners were: Brooke Bilski, first place, Holy Cross High School, Dunmore; Archer Jones, second place, West Scranton High School; and Ella Cohen, third place, Scranton Preparatory School.
The 11th-12th grade essay contest winners were: Norah Kennedy, first place, Holy Cross High School,; Dante Warhola, second place, Holy Cross High School; and Hannah Burke, third place, Blue Mountain High School, Schuylkill Haven.
Information about next year’s essay contest will be posted to the University’s Sustainability webpage in January 2023.
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The University of Scranton hosted panel discussion about the Jesuit university’s Prison Education Initiative on campus during the spring semester.
Inspired by the work of Gregory Boyle, S.J., the founder of Homeboy Industries, The University of Scranton’s Prison Education Initiative seeks to provide inmates in Northeastern Pennsylvania with an Associate of Arts degree in just over three years. The program, directed by Chris Haw, Ph.D., assistant professor of theology/religious studies at Scranton, hopes to build foundations upon which inmates can continue their education.
Panelists Dr. Haw and Christie Karpiak, Ph.D., professor of psychology, discussed their experience teaching at the State Correctional Institution, SCI-Dallas, in Luzerne County; and Jeff Gingerich, Ph.D., then provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at Scranton, spoke on the subject of mass incarceration. Darryl Byers-Robinson, an alumnus of the Bard Prison Initiative, who starred in “College Behind Bars,” also participated in the discussion as a guest-speaker.
Pictured below are several professors at The University of Scranton who have taught at the State Correctional Institution, SCI—Dallas in Luzerne County through the Jesuit university’s Prison Education Initiative. From left are some of the professors who have participated in the Prison Education Initiative: Declan Mulhall, Ph.D., professor of physics and electrical engineering; Christie Karpiak, Ph.D., professor of psychology; Darryl Byers-Robinson, Alumnus of Bard Prison Initiative, guest speaker at a panel discussion about the initiative; and Will Cohen, Ph.D., professor of theology/religious studies.
$content.getChild('content').textValueUniversity Hosts Discussion of Prison Education Initiative
Ryan Sheehan, J.D., has been named executive director of the Jesuit Center at The University of Scranton, effective June 1, 2022.
Sheehan joined The University of Scranton in 2012 as assistant director of The Jesuit Center. During his time at Scranton, he has led numerous retreats and seminars for staff and faculty members to learn, experience and explore Ignatian spirituality. He has also served as interim executive director in 2017. Among the programs he led was the “Footsteps of Ignatius Pilgrimage,” which begins with a nine-month on-campus Ignatian Leadership Program and culminates with a summer trip to Spain and Italy to visit the important sites in the life of St. Ignatius and other prominent Jesuits.
Sheehan also serves as an adjunct professor in several departments at Scranton, including political science, philosophy, English and history.
In addition, Sheehan leads immersion trips for the Kino Border Initiative for the Ignatian Colleagues Program, which is a national program of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities designed to educate and form administrators and faculty more deeply in the Jesuit and Catholic tradition of higher education.
Prior to joining the University, Sheehan worked and lived with Native Americans in Arizona and New Mexico, serving as a teacher and coach at St. Michael Indian School, a Catholic school on the Navajo Reservation.
Sheehan earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware, his master’s degree from Western New Mexico University and his juris doctor degree from Arizona State University.
Ryan Sheehan Named Executive Director
The University of Scranton’s Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service held its inaugural conference on campus in April. Craig Wheeland, Ph.D., the senior vice provost for academics, and professor of public administration at Villanova University, served as keynote speaker. In addition, panelists discussed current political topics including the ethics of legislative pay and per diems, the best grant writing practices, the ethics boards and codes of local governments. University students Clara Downey, Easthampton, Massachusetts; Ana Rahman, Pearl River, New York; and Conor Nealon, Duryea; presented on ways to increase voting among young adults.
The Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service (CEEPS) was instituted in the fall of 2021. Programs offered seek to develop ethical and capable public officials in Northeastern Pennsylvania in order to govern in ways that are just and effective for all community members. CEEPS also hopes to develop an engaged and civically informed community through education, training and public service opportunities. JoyAnna Hopper, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science, and Jean Harris, Ph.D., professor of political science, serve as co-directors of CEEPS.
Pictured below, from left, are: Megan J. Schurra, Easton, University student intern for CEEPS; JoyAnna Hopper, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science and CEEPS co-director; Craig Wheeland, Ph.D., keynote speaker, senior vice provost for academics and professor of public administration, Villanova University; Jean Harris, Ph.D., professor of political science and CEEPS co-director; and Caroline Ries, Tunkhannock, University student intern for CEEPS.
$content.getChild('content').textValueEthics and Excellence in Public Service Conference Held
The University of Scranton hosted a lecture by Michael Mann, Ph.D., on his latest book, “The New Climate War: The Fight to Take Back Our Planet.” Dr. Mann’s presentation, part of Scranton’s Earth Day programming, explored the intricacies of the struggle to conquer the disinformation campaigns of the fossil fuel industry. Following his assessment of the current political barriers to climate change policy, Dr. Mann discussed inadequate solutions as well as the responses to the climate crisis he deems best.
The author of five books on climate change, Dr. Mann’s research has been published in more than 200 peer-reviewed and edited publications. He was a lead author on the Observed Climate Variability and Change chapter of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Third Scientific Assessment Report in 2001 and was organizing committee chair for the National Academy of Sciences Frontiers of Science in 2003. He contributed, with other IPCC authors, to the award of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize.
Dr. Mann is a Distinguished Professor of Atmospheric Science and the director of the Earth System Science Center at Penn State University. He holds joint appointments in the Department of Geosciences and the Earth and Environmental Systems Institute and has received countless awards over the past two decades for his work.
Author Discusses Climate Crisis at Scranton
Thirty-Three members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2022 graduated from its undergraduate Honors Program, which is one of the Jesuit university’s programs of excellence. Students in the Honors Program pursue a rigorous education that stresses independent work through close engagement with professors and other honors students, including the preparation, presentation and defense of a research or creative project during their senior year.
The following is a list of the class of 2022 undergraduate Honors Program graduates, their faculty mentors and their research projects.
Tiannah N. Adams, New York, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a psychology major. Adams worked with faculty advisor Patrick T. Orr, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology, on a thesis titled "The Effects of Apparent Race and Resume Strength on Company Response Rates."
Sophia V. Alderman, Oreland, graduated, summa cum laude, as a psychology major. Alderman worked with faculty advisor Emily J. Hopkins, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology, on a thesis titled "Individual differences and a hierarchy of learning: How children learn from educational television." Alderman was also a member of the University's Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program.
Christina F. Alfano, Red Bank, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biochemistry, cell and molecular biology major. Alfano worked with faculty advisor Kathleen G. Dwyer, Ph.D., Department of Biology, on a thesis titled "Generation of CRISPR Construct pCA1g61370CR2 Targeting the Arabidopsis thaliana At1g61370 Receptor Like Kinase (RLK) Gene and Restriction Site Loss Analysis of pGSMFSCRL26CR2 Knockout Transgenic Plants."
Emily L. Allen, Scott Township, graduated as a biology and Hispanic studies double major. Allen worked with faculty advisor Marc A. Seid, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, on a thesis titled "Effect of Age on Cellular Respiration in Camponotus floridanus Ants."
Stephanie R. Alvarez, South Setauket, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a political science and criminal justice double major. Alvarez worked with faculty advisor Michael E. Allison, Ph.D., professor of political science, on a thesis titled "The Future of US-Cuba Relations."
MaKenna L. Bryant, Dallas, graduated, magna cum laude, as a physiology major. Bryant worked with faculty advisor Christopher Howey, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, on a thesis titled "Effects of Ambient Light at Night on the Metabolic Rates of Anolis carolinensis."
Claire J. Carrera, North Bergen, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as a psychology major. Carrera worked with faculty advisor Christie P. Karpiak, Ph.D., professor of psychology, on a thesis titled "Student Perceptions of Microaggressions by Authorities & Peers."
Lauren E. Cleary, Lynbrook, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience major. Cleary worked with faculty advisor Jill A. Warker, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology, on a thesis titled "The Effects of Rhythmic Priming on Word Learning."
Mary-Katherine J. Cotter, Massapequa, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a history and political science double major. Cotter worked with faculty advisor Michael E. Allison, Ph.D., professor of political science, on a thesis titled "United States-Chinese Relations: The Prevention of Violence."
Patrick Dawid, Exeter, graduated, summa cum laude, as a neuroscience and philosophy double major. Dawid worked with faculty advisor Christie P. Karpiak, Ph.D., professor of psychology, on a thesis titled "Predicting Treatment Stigma Using Constructs Associated with Self-Reliance." Dawid was also a member of the University's Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program and was the recipient of a full-tuition Presidential Scholarship at Scranton.
Koebe S. Diaz, Dumont, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as a psychology major. Diaz worked with faculty advisor Jessica M. Nolan, Ph.D., professor of psychology, on a thesis titled "Crisis at the Southern Boarder: A Scenario Study."
Mia K. Gianello, Old Forge, graduated, summa cum laude, as a neuroscience and biomathematics double major. Gianello worked with faculty advisor Steven T. Dougherty, Ph.D., professor of mathematics, on a thesis titled "Distances in Graphs of Permutations."
Sarah C. Hickey, Scranton, graduated, summa cum laude, as a history major. Hickey worked with faculty advisor Susan L. Poulson, Ph.D., professor of history, on a thesis titled "False Memories: A History of Racism in the Women's Suffrage Movement and its Historiography."
Megan G. Johannesen, Rocky Point, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a political science and philosophy double major. Johannesen worked with faculty advisor Jean W. Harris, Ph.D., professor of political science, on a thesis titled "The Americans with Disabilities Act - Title I: Employment." Johannesen was also a member of the University's Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program.
Isaiah J. Livelsberger, Hanover, graduated, summa cum laude, as an international studies and philosophy double major. Livelsberger worked with faculty advisor Gretchen J. Van Dyke, Ph.D., associate professor of political science, on a thesis titled "Transitioning into Justice and Peace: A Comparative Study of Elites and Civil Society in Post-Genocide Rwanda and Guatemala."
Nia N. Long, East Stroudsburg, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience and philosophy double major. Long worked with faculty advisor Marc A. Seid, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, on a thesis titled "The Effects of Synthetic Hydraulic Fracturing Solution on Locomotion and Brian Morphology in Camponotus floridanus." Long was also a member of the University's Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program.
Ryan J. Maguire, Chester Springs, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biochemistry major. Maguire worked with faculty advisor David A. Rusak, Ph.D., professor of chemistry, on a thesis titled "Effect of Sewer Treatment on Nitrate and Phosphate Levels in the Lackawanna River."
Serena M. Mancini, Wayne, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a criminal justice and counseling and human services double major. Mancini worked with faculty advisor Loreen Wolfer, Ph.D., professor of sociology, criminal justice and criminology, on a thesis titled "The Media's Influence on the Public's Perception of Mass Murder and its Implications."
Samuel L. Marranca, Pittston, graduated, summa cum laude, as a history major. Marranca worked with faculty advisor Sean Brennan, Ph.D., professor of history, on a thesis titled "Coping with the Nazi Legacy: An Examination of Denazification and Post-War Divided Memory in West Germany, 1945-1965."
Allison M. McGee, Peckville, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biology major. McGee worked with faculty advisor Christopher Howey, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, on a thesis titled "Latex Balloon Degradation Differs Based on Environment."
Margaret R. McGrath, Drexel Hill, graduated, summa cum laude, as a biology and philosophy double major. McGrath worked with faculty advisor Christopher Howey, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, on a thesis titled "The Effects of Ambient Light at Night on the Stress Response in Green Anoles (Anolis carolinensis)." McGrath was also a member of the University's Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program and the Magis Honors Program in STEM.
Laura E. Miller, White Haven, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience and biology double major. Miller worked with faculty advisor Marc A. Seid, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, on a thesis titled "Bacteriophage Transfer in Camponotus floridanus through Trophallaxis."
Ashley E. Mullan, Hunntington, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as an applied mathematics and philosophy double major. Mullan worked with faculty advisor Murong Xu, Ph.D., assistant professor of mathematics, on a thesis titled "Musical Feature Classification: Using Techniques of Machine Learning to Detect Genre." Mullan was also a member of the University's Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program and was the recipient of a full-tuition Presidential Scholarship at Scranton.
Shane D. Power, Bronx, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biology major. Power worked with faculty advisor Cara A. Krieg, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, on a thesis titled "Effects of Environmental Quality on House Wren (Troglodytes aedon) Reproductive Success."
Natalie G. Pullows Tetuan , Saint James, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a criminal justice major. Pullows Tetuan worked with faculty advisor Loreen Wolfer, Ph.D., professor of sociology, criminal justice and criminology, on a thesis titled "Examining the Perception of Recreational Marijuana and Non-Prescription Adderall use amongst College Students."
Catherine R. Renton, Ringwood, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as an environmental science major. Renton worked with faculty advisor Vincent R. Farallo, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, on a thesis titled "Soil Microhabitat Differences Between Two Microendemic Salamanders."
Krista M. Segreti, Danbury, Connecticut, graduated, summa cum laude, as a neuroscience major. Segreti worked with faculty advisor Marc A. Seid, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, on a thesis titled "Nestmate Presence Reduces Isolation Induced Digestive Impairments in the Ant Camponotus floridanus."
Amanda L. Serafin, Mechanicsburg, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting and business analytics double major. Serafin worked with faculty advisor Ashley L. Stampone, D.B.A., assistant professor of accounting, on a thesis titled "Integrating ESG into the Accounting Curriculum: Insights from Accounting Educators."
Elias J. Shomali, Ellicott City, Maryland, graduated, summa cum laude, as a neuroscience and philosophy double major. Shomali worked with faculty advisor Marc A. Seid, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, on a thesis titled "The Effects of Serotonergic Manipulation on Ant Feeding Behavior." Shomali was also a member of the University's Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program and was the recipient of a full-tuition Presidential Scholarship at Scranton.
Cameron J. Shedlock, White Haven, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience major. Shedlock worked with faculty advisor Katherine A. Stumpo, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry, on a thesis titled "Characterizing Pancreatic Xenograft Tumor Response to Gemcitabine Treatment with Imaging Mass Spectrometry." Shedlock was also a member of the University's Magis Honors Program in STEM.
Alex O. Sophabmixay, Scranton, graduated, summa cum laude, as a biology major. Sophabmixay worked with faculty advisor Bryan R. Crable, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, on a thesis titled "The Analysis of Transport Influences."
Fatima A. Torres, Scranton, graduated, cum laude, as a criminal justice major. Torres worked with faculty advisor Ismail Onat, Ph.D., assistant professor of sociology, criminal justice and criminology, on a thesis titled "A Turning Point: The Relationship Between Employment and Recidivism."
Anna E. Wengyn, Chalfont, graduated, summa cum laude, as a biochemistry major. Wengyn worked with faculty advisor Billie R. Tadros, Ph.D., assistant professor of English and theatre, on a thesis titled "With the PCOS stuff, I'm like 'Am I not good enough?': Lived Experiences and Understandings of Femininity in the Narratives of Women Ages 18-24 with PCOS." Wengyn was the recipient of a full-tuition Presidential Scholarship at Scranton.
Andrew LaZella, Ph.D., professor of philosophy, and Jill A. Warker, associate professor of psychology, serve as co-directors of the undergraduate Honors Program.
Class of 2022 Honors Program Graduates
BECOME A FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY MEMBER – FREE “NEW GRADUATE MEMBERSHIP”
The Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library invite 2022 graduates to a FREE membership from June 1, 2022, to May 31, 2023.
Benefits of becoming a Friends member include a 10% discount (excluding textbooks) to the University of Scranton Bookstore, invitations to Friends of the Library special events, and many more.
To claim your free membership visit this link.
Grads Get Free Friends of the Library Membership
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague’s accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!
THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for June 2022 is: Ericka Lavelle - Student Health Services
How long have you worked for the University?
I’ve worked for the University for 4 years.
What do you like best about your job?
What I like best about my job is being a part of the university community in helping to create memorable and positive experiences for the students during their time here.
What do you like to do for fun?
For fun, I like to travel and spend time outdoors with my husband and two kids. I also enjoy reading and relaxing with our dog.
We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Ericka does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Ericka and all our nominees.
Ericka will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University foodservice outlets, as well as a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavillon for the month of June. Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition event in May to receive a certificate of appreciation. We congratulate our winner and all the other nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees.
Karl Johns -Technology Support Services
Thomas Cody-Infrastructure & Security Services
Mauri Walsh - WO Clerk, Facilities
Kevin Kocur - Interlibrary Loan Coordinator
Melisa Gallo - WML InterLibrary Loan
Rose Ann Jabinski - Enterprise Application Svcs
Mevlida Kasumovic - Residence Halls Facilities
Paul Snopek - Residence Halls Facilities
Ajisa Alic - Residence Halls Facilities
Carol Policastro - Residence Halls Facilities
John Witko - Facilities Trades
Bernie Reinbold-Student Health Svcs
Melinda Finnerty-Student Health Svcs
Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award Winner, June
Twenty-nine members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2022 graduated from its Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program (SJLA), which is one of Scranton’s programs of excellence. Students in SJLA pursue a rigorous education designed to develop enhanced writing, oral and critical-thinking skills through specially designed courses in philosophy, theology and literature.
The following is a list of the class of 2022 SJLA Honors Program graduates and their majors.
Sophia V .Alderman, Oreland, graduated, summa cum laude, as a psychology major. She was also a member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program.
Megan T. Bertrand, East Windsor, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as an English and philosophy double major.
Jacob T. Breighner, Hanover, graduated, magna cum laude, as an international studies and philosophy double major.
Peter Burke, Scranton, graduated, summa cum laude, as a theology and religious studies, history and philosophy triple major.
Caroline P. Cirella, Randolph, New Jersey, graduated, cum laude, as a political science and philosophy double major.
Sean Patrick Robert Connolly, Danbury, Connecticut, graduated, summa cum laude, as a business analytics and philosophy double major. He was also the recipient of a full-tuition Presidential Scholarship at Scranton.
Charles M. Csaszar, Hopewell Junction, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as an accounting and philosophy double major. He was also a member of the University’s Business Leadership Honors Program.
Patrick Dawid, Exeter, graduated, summa cum laude, as a neuroscience and philosophy double major. He was also a member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program. He was also the recipient of a full-tuition Presidential Scholarship at Scranton.
Elizabeth B. Dern, Doylestown, graduated, cum laude, as an exercise science and philosophy double major.
Michael R. Deutsch, East Northport, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biology major.
Eric W. Dittmar, Stroudsburg, graduated, summa cum laude, as a computer science and philosophy double major. He was also the recipient of the University’s full-tuition Presidential Scholarship.
Amanda K. Gerenza, Stroudsburg, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience and philosophy double major.
Sarah M. Grosso, Newtown Square, graduated, magna cum laude, as an English and philosophy double major.
Caroline R. Hagen, Skaneateles, New York, graduated, cum laude, as a neuroscience major.
Megan G. Johannesen, Rocky Point, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a political science and philosophy double major. She was also a member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program.
Nia N. Long, East Stroudsburg, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience and philosophy double major. Long was also a member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program.
Samantha M. Matamoros-Patrick, Archbald, graduated, cum laude, as a neuroscience major.
Margaret R. McGrath, Drexel Hill, graduated, summa cum laude, as a biology and philosophy double major. She was also a member of the University's undergraduate Honors Program and the Magis Honors Program in STEM.
Ashley E. Mullan, Huntington, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as an applied mathematics and philosophy double major. She was a member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program. She was also the recipient of the University’s full-tuition Presidential Scholarship.
Katelyn R. O’Connor, Sussex, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as an English and philosophy double major.
Jenna M. O’Malley, Scranton, graduated, cum laude, as a biology and philosophy double major.
Ellyn C. Prusinowski, Clay, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biochemistry, cell, molecular biology and philosophy double major.
Sultana Rahman, Pearl River, New York, graduated, cum laude, as a political science major.
Katherine A. Rodrigo, South Plainfield, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as an accounting and philosophy double major.
Elias J. Shomali, Ellicott City, Maryland, graduated, summa cum laude, as a neuroscience and philosophy double major. was also a member of the University’s undergraduate Honors Program. He was the recipient of the University's full-tuition Presidential Scholarship.
Adrianna O. Smith, Covington Township, graduated, cum laude, as a philosophy and theology and religious studies double major.
Kristina J. Thomas, Archbald, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biochemistry and philosophy double major.
Sarah V. White, Brooklyn, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a biology and philosophy double major. She was a member of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM. She was also the recipient of the University’s full-tuition Presidential Scholarship.
Kolton T. Zaffuto, Plymouth, Massachusetts, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biochemistry and philosophy double major.
Daniel Haggerty, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Philosophy Department, serves as the director of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program.
Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program Graduates
Fifteen members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2022 graduated from its Business Leadership Honors Program, which is one of Scranton’s programs of excellence. Students in this highly-selective program explore the basic theories and concepts of leadership through special seminars and courses in management, ethics, strategy and analysis, in addition to field trips to learn from top executives and projects in leadership, service and mentoring.
The following is a list of the class of 2022 Business Leadership Honors Program graduates and their majors:
Marissa E. Angelo, Dickson City, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major. Angelo was also a member of the University’s Business Honors Program.
Alexandra C. Benadon, Hillsborough, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a human resource studies major.
Philip J. Cocco III, Pittston, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major. Cocco was also a member of the University’s Business Honors Program.
Charles M. Csaszar, Hopewell Junction, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as an accounting major. Csaszar was also a member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program.
Collin E. Ennis, Pleasant Mount, graduated, magna cum laude, as a finance major. Ennis was also a member of the University’s Business Honors Program.
Austin J. Glidewell, Clarks Summit, graduated, summa cum laude, as a finance and economics double major. Glidewell was also a member of the University’s Business Honors Program.
Hanna P. Guarnuccio, Scotch Plains, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as an economics and accounting double major. Guarnuccio was also a member of the University’s Business Honors Program.
Dillon C. Heinz, Leonardo, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as a finance major.
Jacqueline J. Heraty, New York, New York, graduated, as a neuroscience major.
Rebecca A. Johnson, Scranton, graduated, magna cum laude, as an accounting major.
Benjamin C. Koshinski, Mountain Top, graduated, summa cum laude, as a management and accounting double major.
Carolina R. Murphy, Jenkintown, graduated, summa cum laude, as a finance and Hispanic studies double major. Murphy was also a member of the University’s Business Honors Program.
Christina F. Piscitelli, New City, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major.
Claudia D. Pitts, Scranton, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major. Pitts was also a member of the University’s Business Honors Program.
Caitlin S. Schreiber, Clarence Centre, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a business administration major. Schreiber was also a member of the University’s Business Honors Program.
Robert McKeage, Ph.D., associate professor of management, marketing and entrepreneurship, serves as director of the University’s Business Leadership Honors Program.
2022 Business Leadership Honors Program Graduates
Five members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2022 graduated from its Magis Honors Program in STEM. The program, which began as a pilot program in the fall of 2017, combines the development of STEM knowledge and research techniques with programing to further the students’ understanding of the impact science has on society. The University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM was officially approved as the University’s fifth honors program in 2019.
The Magis Honors Program offers talented students a more intense, interdisciplinary experience of research in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Courses taken over four years at Scranton combine a series of seminars on STEM and society with humanities courses. With guidance by faculty mentors, the students in the program develop, present and defend a thesis based on their individual research projects. In addition, the program requires participation in annual community service projects as well as professional development programs.
The following members of Scranton’s class of 2022 graduated as members of the Magis Honors Program in STEM.
Justine E. Duva, Glenmoore, graduated, summa cum laude, as a biology major. Duva worked with faculty member Maria Squire, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, on a thesis titled “The Effect of acetaminophen on the tibiae of C57/BL6 male mice.”
Michael W. Laabs, Scranton, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biology major. Laabsworked with faculty member Marc Seid, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, on a thesis titled “Effects of nicotine on recruitment time and recruitment response in the ant Pheidole dentata.”
Margaret R. McGrath, Drexel Hill, graduate, summa cum laude, as a biology and philosophy double major and member of the University’s Undergraduate Honors Program and the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. McGrath worked with faculty member Chris Howey, assistant professor of biology, on a thesis titled “The effects of ambient light at night on the stress response in green anoles (Anolis carolinensis).”
Cameron J. Shedlock, White Haven, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience major and member of the University’s Undergraduate Honors Program. Shedlock worked with faculty member Katherine Stumpo, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry, on a thesis titled “Characterizing pancreatic xenograft tumor response to gemcitabine treatment with imaging mass spectrometry.”
Sarah V. White, Brooklyn, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a biology and philosophy double major and member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. White worked with faculty member Anne Royer, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, on a thesis titled “Quantifying geographic variation and color variation in populations of Mimulus ringens with divergent life histories.” White was also the recipient of a full-tuition Presidential Scholarship at Scranton.
Janice Voltzow, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Biology Department, serves as the director of the Magis Honors Program in STEM.
Class of 2022 Graduates of Magis Honors Program
The University of Scranton will hold Reunion Weekend June 11-12. To register, visit this link.
Royals from all class years are invited to attend this year's celebration, which will be the first in-person Reunion since the start of the pandemic in 2020. The schedule of events will be as follows:
Saturday, June 11
Special Constituency Reunions
11 a.m.
Locations TBD
Hanging in Houlihan (Band and Singers)
Rainbow Royals
SJLA
All-Class Family Picnic
12:30 - 3 p.m.
Founder's Green
Enjoy a picnic lunch and plenty of fun with your friends at this crowd-pleasing, family-friendly event! Entertainment will include a DJ, yard games, ice cream truck, bounce house and more. Visit this link for a preview of the All-Class Family Picnic menu. Adult tickets will cost $30, and tickets for children ages 5-18 will cost $15; children under 5 will be admitted for free.
Saturday Evening Celebration
6 - 10 p.m.
The DeNaples Center Patio & Dionne Green
You and your classmates will be treated to an evening of food, spirits and dancing. Visit this link for a preview of the Saturday Evening Celebration menu. Tickets will cost $50. If you are registered for the Saturday Evening Celebration, you can request housing for yourself and up to three other people. All members of your party must register and pay for the celebration before you will be assigned a room.
Sunday, June 12
Reunion Weekend Mass
9:30 a.m.
Madonna della Strada Chapel
Brunch On Your Own
10 a.m. - noon
Fresh Food Company, 3rd Floor of The DeNaples Center
Brunch will be available for all attendees and their guests for a fee that will be collected upon arrival.
Class of 1972 Special Events
In addition to the events listed above, the University will hold a few special events for the members of The Class of 1972 and their guests.
Friday, June 10
Class Dinner and 50-Year Medal Ceremony
6 p.m.
Location TBD
Includes dinner, cocktails, and the 50-year medal ceremony.
Saturday, June 11
Class of 1972 Memorial
10 a.m.
Chapel of the Sacred Heart
Visit the Chapel of the Sacred Heart to witness a memorial honoring the deceased members of the Class of 1972.
For more information on Reunion Weekend, visit scranton.edu/reunion.
Reunion Weekend to Return June 11-12
Twenty members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2022 graduated from its Business Honors Program, which is one of Scranton’s programs of excellence. Students in this program undergo four years of honors studies in the areas of economics, entrepreneurship, operations management, accounting, finance, international business, marketing and management, as well as a series of personal development extracurricular activities in the areas of service and career building.
The following is a list of the class of 2022 Business Honors Program graduates and their majors:
Peter A. Amicucci, Poughquag, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as an operations management major. Amicucci also won a Fulbright-Lappeeranta University of Technology Graduate Award to Finland.
Marissa E. Angelo, Dickson City, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major. Angelo was also a member of the University's Business Leadership Honors Program.
Christopher J. Bauer, Cresco, graduated, cum laude, as an accounting major.
Claudia V. Bennett, Parsippany, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major.
Philip J. Cocco, Pittston, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major. Cocco was also a member of the University's Business Leadership Honors Program.
Christopher R. Coico, South Hempstead, New York, graduated, cum laude, as an accounting major.
Jake H. Croston, Mount Sinai, New York, graduated, cum laude, as a management major.
Collin E. Ennis, Pleasant Mount, graduated, magna cum laude, as a finance major. Ennis was also a member of the University's Business Leadership Honors Program.
Austin J. Glidewell, Clarks Summit, graduated, summa cum laude, as a finance and economics double major. Glidewell was also a member of the University's Business Leadership Honors Program.
Hanna P. Guarnuccio, Scotch Plains, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as an economics and accounting double major. Guarnuccio was also a member of the University's Business Leadership Honors Program.
Ryan S. Hammer, Wayne, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as an accounting major.
Jacob E. Heaton, Medford Lakes , New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major.
Alyssa Lamparelli, Palmerton, graduated, summa cum laude, as a marketing major.
Holly L. McCarthy, Wall Township, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as a marketing major.
Carolina R. Murphy, Jenkintown, graduated, summa cum laude, as a finance and Hispanic studies double major. Murphy was also a member of the University's Business Leadership Honors Program.
ClaudiaD.Pitts, Scranton, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major. Pitts was also a member of the University's Business Leadership Honors Program.
Caitlin S. Schreiber, Clarence Centre, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a business administration major. Schreiber was also a member of the University's Business Leadership Honors Program.
Alexander K. Schwabe, Doylestown, graduated, cum laude, as a finance major.
Erin M. Wilson, Collegeville, graduated, summa cum laude, as an economics major.
Russell A. Young, Charleston, South Carolina, graduated as an accounting major.
Rose Sebastianelli, Ph.D., professor of operations and analytics, serves as director of the University’s Business Honors Program.
Class of 2022 Business Honors Program Graduates
The annual median pay for a career in data analytics can range from $82,000 to $114,000. Additionally, market-related analytics is one of the fastest growing fields with Forbes estimating a growth rate of “67% over the past year, and 136% over the past three years” and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting employment growth of up to 27% from 2016 to 2026.
The University of Scranton’s Bachelor of Science in business analytics is designed to help students learn the variety of skill sets needed to be successful in this interdisciplinary field, where they will be asked to conduct, analyze and evaluate data in order to make better business decisions. Potential job titles one can pursue with this degree include management consultant, data analyst, operations research analyst, and more.
As part of the Kania School of Management (KSOM), Scranton’s business programs are accredited by the rigorous standards of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is an elite accolade that fewer than five percent of business schools worldwide hold.
Scranton’s business analytics program includes courses from data mining, database management systems, and simulation as well as the communication, managerial and decision-making skills needed to Students will be introduced to tools like structured query language (SQL) and Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) as related to the use of analytics in decision making.
Scranton also offers a master’s degree in business analytics in an online or on-campus format, as well as a business analytics certificate.
Predicting the Future with Business Analytics
Following the conclusion of the spring 2022 semester, 60 senior student-athletes from The University of Scranton have earned Merit Awards for academic success during their respective careers. In order to be eligible for a merit award, individuals must have completed their final semester with a cumulative 3.5 GPA or higher.
The full list of 2022 Merit Award winners are here.
60 Senior Student-Athletes Earn Merit Awards for Academic Success
The University of Scranton will hold the Carlesimo Golf Tournament & Award Dinner on June 27 at Canoe Brook Country Club in Summit, New Jersey. The University will honor Tony Rice, Notre Dame legend and quarterback for the 1988 National Championship Team, with the Peter A. Carlesimo Award. To register, visit this link.
The University is proud to partner once again with the Quandel Construction Group as Title Sponsor for this year's event. Registration and lunch will begin at 10 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at noon; a reception will begin at 5 p.m., and the Award Dinner will immediately follow.
The Golf Tournament and Award Dinner serves as a fundraising event to support and enhance the student-athlete experience at The University of Scranton. For more information about this event, please visit scranton.edu/carlesimoaward or contact Eric Eckenrode at eric.eckenrode@scranton.edu.
Reminder: University to Hold Carlesimo Golf Tournament and Award Dinner June 27
On June 10, John O’Malley ’87, Lieutenant Colonel, US Army Retired, will embark upon ROAR: The Ryan O’Malley Annual Ride for the fourth time by participating in The Tour Divide, an annual ultra-distance cycling race that sees participants traverse the length of the Rocky Mountains from Alberta, Canada, to the US/Mexico border in New Mexico, in support of the Ryan T. O’Malley ’99 Memorial Scholarship.
After Ryan's passing in 2011, his family established the scholarship in his memory to enable Computer Science students of limited resources with an interest in fitness to attend The University of Scranton. Since that time, Ryan's family and friends have raised more than $150,000 for the scholarship, much of it through ROAR: The Ryan O'Malley Annual Race, a 5K fundraising event the family organized from 2013-2017. In 2018, John, Ryan’s brother, embarked upon the inaugural ROAR: The Ryan O’Malley Annual Ride by cycling the 500+ miles of The Colorado Trail from Denver to Durango in Ryan’s memory. While John rode The Colorado Trail again for ROAR in 2019 and 2020, he was sidelined by injuries and knee surgery in 2021. This year, he is looking forward to riding for “family, community and the well-being of others.”
“I ride to remember and honor our brother, Ryan,” he said. “I ride to give back in some way to the community who nurtured us. Through the ROAR and Ryan’s scholarship, we help to provide students with limited financial resources the opportunity to attend The University of Scranton.
“I ride to promote physical and mental well-being. If I can inspire anyone to get outside and exercise, it’s a win.”
A Lifelong Love
John’s love of cycling and adventure began when he was growing up in the Green Ridge section of Scranton.
“Bikes were a big deal back then, and if you had one, you were a lucky kid,” he said. “ For me, the bike became an instrument of exploration, discovery and freedom.”
As the oldest child of John J. O’Malley, Ph.D. ’64, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at the University, and his wife, Helene, John shared his love of cycling with his five siblings, especially Ryan, his youngest brother.
“As a kid, time and distance had little meaning,” he said of the hours they spent exploring the NEPA area together. “We’d just ride, inspired by the adventure and the natural beauty of the region.”
Upon graduating from the University, John began his military career in Ft. Carson, Colorado, where he started racing mountain bikes. Since then, he has continued to ride and race, competing in triathlons and adventure races throughout the country. When he and his family settled in Monument, Colorado, he became so inspired by the expanses and terrain he saw on two wheels that he proposed the idea of funding Ryan’s scholarship through an annual bike ride, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The Tour Divide
The Tour Divide follows the 2,745-mile “Great Divide Mountain Bike Route,” a 90% off-road trail that follows the Continental Divide through Alberta, British Columbia, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico. Established by the Adventure Cycling Association in 1998, it is considered the most important off-pavement cycling route in the world.
The Tour Divide’s race clock runs 24 hours a day, and the self-supported riders aren’t allowed any outside help other than the ability to access public facilities along the way that are available to everyone. Participating cyclists must carry their camping equipment, food and water through long stretches of remote mountain wilderness, pristine river valleys, open grassland and desert while risking injury, mechanical failure, treacherous weather and encounters with potentially dangerous wildlife.
John plans to complete The Tour Divide in about 30 days by riding 85-100+ miles a day, and he estimates he’ll have to consume a minimum of 300-400 calories an hour to sustain this effort.
“Competing in The Tour Divide is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said. “I am blessed to have the time, resources, health and support of my family to take on such an endeavor. I’m going to give it my best shot and make it to the Mexican Border.
“I hope to inspire others to get outside, stay healthy and live life to the fullest, just like Ryan would.”
John said he attributes any success in cycling and in his life in general to his upbringing, to the time he spent on the gridiron and ball fields of Scranton, and to his time at the University.
“The work ethic, values and grit instilled in me at a young age has carried me through challenging times in the military and in sport and adventure,” he said. “My experience at the University and the long hours spent in the ROTC program and the weight room set me up for success in life.
“The people who raised, coached and nurtured me while growing up in Scranton are my greatest life heroes. The University of Scranton was truly our home away from home.”
To support the Ryan O’Malley Annual Ride and Ryan’s scholarship, visit this link. To track John’s progress on The Tour Divide, visit this link.
Fourth Ryan O'Malley Annual Ride to Begin June 10
This May, The University of Scranton and ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge announced that Sultana (Ana) Rahman ’22 has been recognized on the 2022 ALL IN Student Voting Honor Roll. The ALL IN Student Voting Honor Roll is a recognition program for college students at participating campuses doing outstanding work to advance nonpartisan democratic engagement. Sultana Rahman joins a group of 82 college students recognized for their nonpartisan voter engagement efforts on campuses across the country in 2021.
“Ana’s work to ensure that every University of Scranton is registered and ready to vote has been invaluable. During her time at the University, Ana worked diligently in collaboration with on and off campus partners on nonpartisan voter engagement efforts and developed creative solutions for civic and democratic engagement here at Scranton,” said Carolyn M. Bonacci, community and civic engagement coordinator.
While at The University of Scranton, Ana served as the Community & Government Relations Civic Engagement Intern during the 2020-2021 and 2021–2022 academic years. In this role, she worked in partnership with leaders in Student Government including Conor Nealon ’22, Clara Downey ‘23 and Julie Hack ’21 on the “Royals Vote” initiative. Efforts included identifying the best modes and methods for providing vital voter education information, creating voter education presentations to offer to First Year Seminar courses, and developing a dedicated voter education and information “Royals Vote” resource page. Additionally, Rahman collaborated with Bonacci on updates to the University’s 2022 Voting Action Plan. Ana graduated this May with a degree in political science with minors in criminal justice & Arabic. This fall she will attend NYU’s Graduate School of Arts and Science where she has been accepted into the Master's in Politics program where she plans to specialize in American politics.
“College student voter turnout has increased since 2016, and this increase has been driven by students. The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge is excited to expand our ALL IN Student Voting Honor Roll to recognize these student voting champions across the country,” said Jennifer Domagal-Goldman, executive director of the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge. “These students registered voters, served on their campus voting coalitions, spearheaded voter education efforts, advocated for campus polling locations and organized other voter engagement efforts to ensure their peers were confident and informed voters. We are excited to see what they continue to accomplish ahead of the 2022 midterms.”
The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge empowers colleges and universities to achieve excellence in nonpartisan student democratic engagement. Campuses that join the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge complete a set of action items, with the support of ALL IN Challenge staff, to institutionalize nonpartisan civic learning, political engagement, and voter participation on their campus. The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge currently engages over 9 million students from more than 870 institutions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
The University of Scranton created the "Royals Vote" initiative and joined the ALL IN Democracy Challenge in 2020. During the 2020 election, student voting on campus increased significantly, rising to 73.1% in 2020 from a rate of 50.6% in 2016 and 7 points above the 66% 2020 student national average. The University also increased voter registration rates, with 86.7% of eligible voters registering compared to the 83% national average. For more information and to view The University of Scranton’s 2020 ALL IN Action Plan, please visit scranton.edu/RoyalsVote.
ABOUT ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge:
The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge (ALL IN) is a national nonpartisan initiative of Civic Nation, a 501(c)(3) organization. The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge strives to change civic culture and institutionalize democratic engagement activities and programs on college campuses, making voter participation a defining feature of campus life.
ALL IN, in collaboration with over 870 higher education institutions, seeks to make participation in local, state, and federal elections a social norm; substantially increase the number of college students who are democratically engaged on an ongoing basis, during and between elections, and not just at the polls, and; make educating for democratic engagement on college campuses an accepted and expected part of the culture and curriculum so that students graduate with the knowledge, skills, behaviors, and values needed to be an informed and active citizen.
University of Scranton Student Recognized on the 2022 ALL IN Student Voting Honor Roll
VIDEO: Faculty Spotlight: Aiala Levy, Ph.D.
The Scranton Club of New York will meet at Yankee Stadium Aug. 17 to watch the New York Yankees take on the Tampa Bay Rays.
The game will begin at 7:05 p.m., and gates will open at 5:30 p.m. The club will hold a pre-game reception on the Budweiser Party Deck featuring 90 minutes of food, draft beer, and non-alcoholic beverages, all of which will be included in the price of admission. Tickets will cost $75.
To register, visit this link.
Scranton Club of New York To Meet At Yankee Game Aug. 17
The Scranton Club of New Jersey will host a Day At The Races at Monmouth Park Racetrack July 24.
Alumni, parents and friends of the University are invited to enjoy a day at the track in the Reserved Picnic Area. In addition to betting on the horses, this family-friendly event will include a picnic barbecue, playground, live music and more. Gates will open at 11:30 a.m. Tickets for adults 13 and over will cost $26, tickets for children ages 6-12 will cost $13, and children under 6 will receive free admission.
To register, visit this link.
Reminder: Scranton Club of NJ to Host Day at the Races July 24
The Scranton Club of NEPA will meet up to watch the Railriders take on the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs June 5 at PNC Field.
Alumni, parents and friends of the University are invited to attend the game, which will begin at 1:05 p.m. Gates will open at noon. Tickets will cost $25 for adults and $15 for children ages 3-17, and children 2 and under will be admitted for free. To register, visit this link.
Scranton Club of NEPA to Meet at Railriders Game June 5
Congratulations to the University's newest alumni. Find a roundup of Commencement news below.
Awards and Honors
Outstanding Master's and Doctoral Graduates Awarded
Outstanding Graduates Recognized at Class Night
Two Class of 2022 Graduates Win Fulbrights
Graduating Class of 2022 Names Teacher of the Year
Scranton Graduates Commissioned as Second Lieutenants
Programs of Excellence
Students graduate from the University’s five programs of excellence.
Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program
Business Leadership Honors Program
Members of the University's Undergraduate and Graduate Class of 2022 Reprise
Members of The University of Scranton’s undergraduate and graduate Class of 2022 represent more than 30 states and the District of Columbia. Get the Quick Facts, here.
The University conferred more than 850 bachelor’s degrees at its undergraduate commencement ceremony on May 21 at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre, and more than 500 master’s and doctoral degrees at its graduate commencement ceremony.
Watch the Commencement 2022 videos, here and a selection of photos from the weekend, here.
Commencement 2022 Roundup
The Scranton Club of Lehigh Valley will meet up to watch the Iron Pigs take on the Norfolk Tides June 24 at Coca-Cola Park.
Alumni, parents and friends of the University are invited to attend the game, which will begin at 7:05 p.m. Tickets will be seated in Section 118. Visit this link to register for $11, which includes $2 in ballpark credit. For more information, contact alumni@scranton.edu.
Reminder: Scranton Club of Lehigh Valley to Meet at Iron Pigs Game June 24
The Scranton Club of Lehigh Valley will hold a miniature golf tournament Saturday, June 4, at 5 p.m. at Putt U, 5201 PA-309, Center Valley, PA.
Royals will gather at the Putt U Pavilion, which adjoins both the red and blue courses, to begin their evening of summertime fun. Tickets will cost $7.50 for adults and $6.50 for children under 12 and adults over 62. After the tournament, attendees can plan to meet at Copperhead Grille, 5737 PA-378, Bethlehem, PA, for an informal post-tournament gathering.
To register, visit this link.
Scranton Club of Lehigh Valley to Hold Mini-Golf Tournament June 4
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Marion Munley ’83, Moosic, of Munley Law, was named to the 2022 Lawdragon 500 “Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers List.”
Lisa Witowski Shearman ’89, Lansdale, a partner in the firm Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin, was recently interviewed on “Legal Talk with Stacy Clark TV” (MLTV21-Main Line Network). In the interview, Sherman covered the importance of everyone having a will and other estate planning documents up-to-date and in place, including a Financial Power of Attorney, Health Care Power of Attorney and an Advance Medical Directive. Sherman was selected to the 2022 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list in the area of Estate Planning and Probate law.
Daniel W. Munley ’90, Waverly, of Munley Law, was named to the 2022 Lawdragon 500 “Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers List.”
Brett Lapinski ’93, Elk Grove, California, was promoted to director of Medi-Cal Regulatory Oversight Operations for Kaiser Foundation Health Plan in January 2022. In her role, Brett is accountable for activities throughout Kaiser Permanente related to Medicaid regulations and contract requirements and ensuring quality, affordable and accessible member care. Lapinski also earned her national board certification in Informatics Nursing.
Brian J. Gavin ’00, Alexandria, Virginia, senior vice president of communications and marketing for Volunteers of America, has earned his CFRE certification from Certified Fundraising Executive International. Established in 1981, CFRE is the only globally recognized fundraising certification and is accredited by the American National Standards Institute as the only accredited certification for fundraising professionals.
Colin J. O’Boyle ’04, Plymouth Meeting, a shareholder at Elliott Greenleaf PC in Blue Bell, was honored by the Pennsylvania Bar Association (PBA) Young Lawyers Division with its Michael K. Smith Excellence in Service Award at an awards ceremony during the PBA Annual Meeting in May 2022. The award is presented to a Pennsylvania young lawyer who, through his or her exemplary personal and professional conduct, reminds lawyers of their professional and community responsibilities.
Father Henry Graebe ’09, Jackson, New Jersey, was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on May 21, 2022.
Jonathan B. Schall ’13 has joined Fox Rothschild LLP in Philadelphia as an associate in the Corporate and Health Law Practices.
BIRTHS
A son, Russell Walter, to William and Leigh Magnotta Fennie'11, G'19, Scranton
DEATHS
Stanley J. Burke ’50, Port Carbon
Roman Salamon ’57, Susquehanna
James J. Miskell ’60, Bardstown, Kentucky
J. Brian Durkin ’71, Philadelphia
Gregory A. Nelson ’86, Wyoming
FRIENDS/FAMILY DEATHS
Brian Leahy, husband of Susan Paige Leahy ’91 and brother of Michael Leahy ’05
Alumni Class Notes, June 2022
After our June 1 issue, the University's Royal News e-newsletter will publish on a summer schedule, though the website will continue to be updated daily. And we will return periodically to update our community on the goings-on around campus.
We will publish two alumni editions, one on July 6 and one on Aug. 3, then we'll return to regular action on Wednesday, Aug. 24, and continue our regular weekly publishing schedule throughout the fall 2022 semester.
We welcome announcement submissions from faculty, staff, students and clubs at any time throughout the winter (to include in one of these issues, and beyond), so please send them along. See the instructions here.
Thanks, and have a great summer!
Royal News, Summer Schedule
May
View May Listing Page
The University of Scranton honored 62 members of its undergraduate class of 2022 for academic excellence, service or both at a Class Night ceremony on campus May 20.
Students with the highest GPA in each of the University’s three undergraduate colleges were presented Frank J. O’Hara Awards for General Academic Excellence, a memorial to the late administrator who served the University for 53 years.
Class of 2022 O’Hara Award recipients were: Marissa Emily Angelo, Dickson City, for the Kania School of Management; Stephanie Michele Hoffmann, Staten Island, New York, for the Panuska College of Professional Studies; and Sarah Veronica White, Brooklyn, New York, for the College of Arts and Sciences.
Also recognized at the ceremony were two members of the class of 2022 who received prestigious student Fulbright Awards. Peter Anthony Amicucci, Poughquag, New York, won a Fulbright-Lappeeranta University of Technology Graduate Award to Finland, and Crysta O’Donnell, Riegelsville, won an English Teaching Assistantship to Andorra.
In addition, students were honored for outstanding academic achievement in their fields of study and leadership and service.
The students honored and the awards received are as follows:
Tiannah Nicole Adams, New York, New York, received the Lawrence Lennon Award for Outstanding Service and Achievement in Psychology and The Alumni Loyalty and Service Award;
Sophia Victoria Alderman, Oreland, received the Excellence in Psychology (ex-aequo) Award;
Sabrina M. Alvarez, Moosic, received the Excellence in Information Technology Award;
Amicucci also received the Excellence in Operations Management Award;
Angelo also received the Excellence in Accounting and the Edward J. Spitzer Scholarship awards;
Marino David Angeloni, Jessup, received the Jesuit Community Award;
Alexa Nyx Baldon, Langhorne, received the Excellence in Applied Computing Award;
Lauryn Elizabeth Beermann, Dalton, received the Excellence in Health Advocacy Award;
Alexandra C. Benadon, Hillsborough, New Jersey, received the Excellence in Human Resource Studies Award;
Shannon Malloy Broderick, New Fairfield, Connecticut, received the Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing Award;
MaKenna Lynn Bryant, Dallas, received the Excellence in Physiology Award;
Mary Elizabeth Bunone, Ramsey, New Jersey, received the Lawrence Mann Award;
Peter Aloysius Burke, Scranton, received the Prof. Frank C. Brown Award for Excellence in History and the Excellence in Theology/Religious Studies Award;
Philip Joseph Cocco III, Pittston, received the PA Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Award;
Sean Patrick Robert Connolly, Danbury, Connecticut, received the Excellence in Business Analytics Award;
Alexander K. Curtis, Waymart, received the Excellence in Chemistry Award;
Koebe Soleil Diaz, Dumont, New Jersey, received the Excellence in Psychology (ex-aequo) Award;
Eric W. Dittmar, Stroudsburg, received the Excellence in Computer Science Award;
Charles Dominick, Langhorne, received the Excellence in Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology Award;
Laura Gale Ellwood, Mount Holly Springs, received the Excellence in Environmental Science Award;
Mia Kathryn Gianello, Old Forge, received the Excellence in Biomathematics Award;
Hanna Patricia Guarnuccio, Scotch Plains, New Jersey, received the Excellence in Economics Award;
Zeruiah Imani Harris, Saylorsburg, received the Excellence in Forensic Chemistry Award;
Hoffmann also received the Excellence in Middle Level Education Award;
Natalie Jade Intrieri, North Salem, New York, received the Excellence in Counseling and Human Services Award;
Madison Rylie Jashembowski, Middletown, New York, received the Excellence in Finance Award;
Emily Christine Kale, Mount Arlington, New Jersey, received the Academic Excellence in Nursing Award;
Benjamin C. Koshinski, Mountain Top, received the Excellence in Management Award;
Claudia Rose Kovaleski, Lake Ariel, received the Prof. Bernard J. McGurl Award for Excellence in Communication;
Brian Kroll, Laflin, received the Dr. A.J. Cawley Award for Excellence in Electrical Engineering;
James John Leonard, Interlaken, New Jersey, received the J. Harold Brislin Memorial Award for Excellence in Journalism;
Isaiah J. Livelsberger, Hanover, received the Excellence in International Studies Award;
Abril Lopez, Scranton, received the Lawrence Mann Award;
Ryan James Maguire, Chester Springs, received the Excellence in Biochemistry Award;
Serena Martine Mancini, Wayne, New Jersey, received the Excellence in Criminal Justice Award;
Caitlyn Reilly Maurer, White House Station, New Jersey, received The Military Science Leadership Award;
Ashley Elana Mullan, Huntington, New York, received the Excellence in Applied Mathematics Award;
Carolina Rose Murphy, Jenkintown, received the Prof. Joseph G. Brunner Award for Excellence in Foreign Languages;
Katelyn Rose O’Connor, Sussex, New Jersey, received the Prof. Joseph B. Cullather Award for Excellence in English;
Caitlin M. O’Dowd, Congers, New York, received the Excellence in Health Administration Award;
Erin M. Palermo, Midland Park, New Jersey, received the Excellence in Health Promotion Award;
Simon John Peter, Jr., Wilkes Barre, received the Prof. Timothy H. Scully Award for Excellence in Political Science;
Kevin Glenn Phiefer, Hamburg, New Jersey, received the Prof. Joseph P. Harper Award for Excellence in Physics;
Noslairi Rodriguez Mesa, Philadelphia, received the Excellence in International Business Award;
Caitlin S. Schreiber, Clarence Center, New York, received the Excellence in Business Administration Award;
John W. Shaughnessy, Florida, New York, received the Excellence in Chemistry-Business Award;
David Richard Shea, South Gibson, received the American Chemical Society Award;
Elias Jacob Shomali, Ellicott City, Maryland, received the J. Timothy Cannon Award for Excellence in Neuroscience;
Adrianna Olga Smith, Covington Township, received the Student Life Award;
Alex Oudomsack Sophabmixay, Scranton, received the Excellence in Biology Award and The J.J. Quinn, S.J., Achievement Award;
Kimberly Ann Stossel, East Stroudsburg, received the Excellence in Marketing Award;
Kayla B. Stubits, Lehighton, received the Excellence in Sociology Award;
Michael M. Taylor, Union Dale, received the Excellence in Economics Award;
Tiffany Catherine Toth, Meshoppen, received the Excellence in Kinesiology Award;
Maura Elizabeth Turi, Scranton, received the Excellence in Mathematical Sciences Award;
Alexa Scott Untener, Stony Point, New York, received the Excellence in Early and Primary Education Award;
Matthew T. Valunas, Dunmore, received the Excellence in Theatre Award;
Anna Camille Van Wert, South Abington Township, received the Mary E. Quinn Award for Excellence in Secondary Education;
Lyndsey Charlotte Weitzel, Newtown, received the Excellence in Occupational Therapy Award;
White also received the Excellence in Philosophy and Student Life awards;
Zeba Naz Zafar, Scranton, received the Excellence in Mathematics Award. $content.getChild('content').textValueOutstanding Graduates Recognized at Class Night
The University of Scranton recognized outstanding master’s and doctoral degree graduates at its graduate commencement events the weekend of May 20-22. At the graduate commencement ceremony at Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre, the University conferred post-baccalaureate degrees to more than 500 graduates who had completed their academic degree requirements in August and December of 2021, as well as January and May of 2022.
Graduates represented 34 states, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Washington, among others. Students also represented Puerto Rico, Saudi Arabia, India, Mexico and France. An archived recording of the ceremony can be seen here.
The following graduate students were honored for achievement in their academic area.
Chelsey C. Gill, Binghamton, New York, received the Outstanding Student Award for Doctor of Nursing Practice, Nurse Anesthesia;
Jennifer Ann Kalinowski, Spring Brook Township, received the Outstanding Student Award for Doctor of Nursing Practice;
Ashley L. Stampone, Old Forge, received the Outstanding Student Award for Doctor of Business Administration;
Fahad Saeed Alrefaei, Scranton, received the Outstanding Student Award for Management Info Systems;
Juliet A. Baldassarri, Baldwin, New York, received the Outstanding Student Award for Occupational Therapy;
Hinkish Dhakal, Scranton, received the Outstanding Student Award for Biochemistry;
Courtney Erwin, New York, New York, received the Outstanding Student Award for Healthcare Management;
Megan E. Fabian, West Seneca, New York, received the Outstanding Student Award for Theology;
Hillary Beatrice Grove, York, received the Outstanding Student Award for Health Administration;
John Hakim, Dallas, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Analytics;
Jeffrey William Heilbrunn, Inkerman, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Analytics;
Katheryn Dolores Hickey, South Huntington, New York, received the Outstanding Student Award for Special Education;
Christian Tyler Huckfeldt, Ambler, received the Outstanding Student Award for Doctor of Physical Therapy;
Zaid Yahya Iskandarani, Scranton, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Analytics;
Kathie Haaheo Kaopuiki-Nestrick, Exeter, received the Outstanding Student Award for Clinical Mental Health Counseling;
Caroline Bernice Kropp, Shavertown, received the Outstanding Student Award for Rehabilitation Counseling;
Thomas P. Maccari, Emmaus, received the Outstanding Student Award for Software Engineering;
Joseph A. Macus, Allentown, received the Outstanding Student Award for Human Resources;
Leyna Christine Magdon, Stephens City, Virginia, received the Outstanding Student Award for Enterprise Resource Planning;
James P. McGuire, Cedar Grove, New Jersey, received the Outstanding Student Award for Accounting Analytics;
Matthew Ian Morrow, Bethlehem, received the Outstanding Student Award for General Business Administration;
Robert Mullen, Jr., Parkesburg, received the Outstanding Student Award for Operations Management;
Matthew Daniel Pinto, Massapequa Park, New York, received the Outstanding Student Award for Accounting;
Calvin M. Ralph, Hillsdale, New Jersey, received the Outstanding Student Award for Secondary Education;
Julia M. Rostron, Harleysville, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Analytics;
Sarah Rusch, Graham, North Carolina, received the Outstanding Student Award for Master of Business Administration/Master of Healthcare Management;
Jennifer Lynn Thomas, Susquehanna, received the Outstanding Student Award for Family Nurse Practitioner;
Angelica Torres, El Paso, Texas, received the Outstanding Student Award for Health Informatics;
Shelby E. Valvano, Meshoppen, received the Outstanding Student Award for School Counseling;
Kelly A. Williams, Jessup, received the Outstanding Student Award for Marketing;
Yue Xie, Scranton, received the Outstanding Student Award for Finance.
$content.getChild('content').textValueOutstanding Master’s and Doctoral Graduates Awarded
Eight members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2022 were commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army during a ceremony held in the Kane Forum of Leahy Hall on campus on May 21.
The University of Scranton ROTC graduates who were commissioned at the ceremony are:
2nd Lt. Ryan M. Ginder of Wharton, New Jersey;
2nd Lt. Caitlyn Reilly Maurer of White House Station, New Jersey;
2nd Lt. Andrea Susana McDarby of Clarks Summit;
2nd Lt. Zachary N. Raico of Sykesville, Maryland;
2nd Lt. Maximilian James Sharkey of Carlisle;
2nd Lt. John W. Shaughnessy of Florida, New York;
2nd Lt. Brenna C. Tracy of Lavallette, New Jersey;
2nd Lt. Katelyn Elizabeth Weisz of Littlestown.
$content.getChild('content').textValueScranton Graduates Commissioned as Second Lieutenants
The University of Scranton will offer a new Master’s Degree in Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity in a fully online format that will focus on the criminological aspects of the much-in-demand field.
In addition, the graduate degree program is aligned with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Workforce Framework, which consists of standards, guidelines and best practices to manage cybersecurity risk. The program, which will be offered starting in the fall of 2022, will help prepare students for various professional certifications by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, such as Certified Ethical Hacker and Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator.
“The field of cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity is growing rapidly as malicious attacks to information systems at the local, regional, national and international level become more frequent and detrimental to individuals and organizations who have become increasingly dependent upon the use of technology,” said Michael Jenkins, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice and Criminology at The University of Scranton. “Many new and existing higher education programs in this field focus heavily on the computer science discipline, however, to prevent cyber threats today, we also need professionals who fully understand cybercriminal’s motivations, goals, behaviors, methods of intrusions and manipulations.”
The University’s new 30-credit Master’s Degree in Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity program courses include Cyber Criminology and Criminal Justice, Digital Forensics Investigation, Mobile Forensics, Cyber Defense and Cyber Risk Assessment and Management, among others. The program will leverage the University’s partnership with Jacobs, through which the international defense and security firm will advise Scranton on the fast-changing field to support and keep current the cyber-related undergraduate and graduate curriculum. Jacobs will also be a source of job placement for University graduates.
Dr. Jenkins said graduates of the program can work for small or large businesses, as well as for government agencies or nonprofit organizations. Positions in this field include cybercrime investigator, digital forensic examiner or cybersecurity specialist.
“Job reports continue to project a national and worldwide shortage of cyber-related workers. With the cyber-related global workforce expected to rise to 6 million professionals by 2030, a 1.5 million shortfall is predicted for this workforce,” said Dr. Jenkins.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics employment for cybersecurity analysts will increase by 28 percent between 2016 and 2026, and employment for digital forensic analysts is expected to increase by 32 percent between 2018 and 2028. Both rates are higher than the average growth rate for all other professionals.
According to PayScale.com, information security officers, a position for which master’s degrees are often preferred or required, earn an annual median salary of $92,000.
The new master’s degree program will be housed in the University’s Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice and Criminology.
The University began offering a Bachelor of Science in Cybercrime and Homeland Security in the fall of 2020. Both undergraduate and graduate students in these programs have access to hands-on programming and research opportunities offered through the University’s Center for the Analysis and Prevention of Crime.
For additional information, email Dr. Jenkins at Michael.jenkins@scranton.edu.Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity Graduate Degree
The newly renovated, state-of-the-art laboratory and learning space for The University of Scranton’s Mechanical Engineering Program was featured in a video by DiscoverNEPA. The 5,300 square-foot wing of Hyland Hall incudes three laboratories, a workshop, a machine shop, and a 16-seat computer lab, as well as faculty offices and a student lounge area.
The renovated facility allows mechanical engineering students to use the latest laboratory, simulation and modeling techniques in their coursework at Scranton. With small class sizes, the students get hands-on experience using several pieces of equipment in solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, control, dynamics and vibration labs.
In 2021, the University received a $1.5 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant in support of its new mechanical engineering major, which includes the reconfiguration of instructional space in Hyland Hall.
In addition to mechanical engineering, which the University began to offer in the fall of 2020, other majors offered by the University’s Physics and Engineering Department include computer engineering, electrical engineering, engineering management, biophysics and physics.
For additional information, contact the University’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions at 888-727-2686 or email admissions@scranton.edu.
Video Features the New Mechanical Engineering Wing
The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimates overall employment of mathematicians and statisticians to “grow 30 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations,” reasoning that “businesses will need these workers to analyze the increasing volume of digital and electronic data.”
The University of Scranton’s Bachelor of Science in mathematical sciences bridges the interdisciplinary nature of studying mathematics at an undergraduate level with students individual career goals by offering five academic tracks including actuarial science, biological sciences, computer and information science, data science or physical sciences. Although all students are required to take courses in calculus and linear algebra, additional upper-level mathematics courses are chosen with students’ individual goals in mind.
With career opportunities in STEM disciplines, business and the social sciences, this program is focused on developing the skill sets students need to succeed in a wide variety of professions. Courses are taught with the intention of developing students’ problem-solving skills, critical thinking, logical reasoning and collaboration. With small class sizes of approximately 10 to 20 students, faculty can get to know students on an individual basis and provide academic support that is tailored to each students’ needs. As part of their undergraduate education, students are also encouraged to pursue internships and co-ops.
Job titles of Scranton biomathematics and applied mathematics program graduates, include actuarial analyst, data scientist, operations analyst, software consultant and compensation analyst. Scranton graduates can be found working at HP Hood, Penn Life Mutual Insurance, Voya Financial and Central Square Technologies. Graduates who chose to pursue additional education have been accepted at schools such as Cornell University, Texas A and M, University of Pittsburgh, Drexel University and the University of Massachusetts.
Calculating Career Possibilities with Mathematics
Billie R. Tadros, Ph.D., assistant professor in the English and Theatre Department, was named Teacher of the Year by The University of Scranton’s class of 2022. The award was presented at the Class Night event on May 20.
The award honors a faculty member who maintains high standards of academic excellence and fairness, and through enthusiasm and dedication, inspires the interest of students in a field of education. The University’s Faculty Senate Academic Support Committee instituted the award in 1996.
Dr. Tadros joined the faculty at Scranton in 2018. She serves as the faculty moderator for Scranton’s Mu Omicron chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the international English honor society. She is also an associate faculty member in the Women’s and Gender Studies Program. She directs the Health Humanities Concentration. The courses she teaches include Introduction to Poetry, Contemporary American Poetry, Perspectives in Literature about Illness, “Bodybuilding” Narratives of Health and Ability, Composition and Poetry Writing.
Dr. Tadros is the author of three books of poems, “Graft Fixation” (Gold Wake Press, 2020), “Was Body” (Indolent Books, 2020) and “The Tree We Planted and Buried You In” (Otis Books, 2018). She also authored three chapbooks, “Am/Are I” (Francis House, 2020), “inter: burial places” (Porkbelly Press, 2016) and “Containers” (Dancing Girl Press, 2014). Her poems have appeared in numerous journals including, Bone Bouquet, Black Warrior Review, Crab Fat Magazine, Entropy, Lavender Review and Tupelo Quarterly, and in anthologies including, “The Queer South” and “Women Write Resistance: Poets Resist Gender Violence.” She is currently working on a narrative research project exploring the gendered implications of traumatic injuries to self-identified women runners.
Dr. Tadros also serves as a poetry editor for the journal Gigantic Sequins and as an assistant poetry editor for the journal Fairy Tale Review.
Dr. Tadros earned her bachelor’s degrees in creative writing and music from Susquehanna University and a master’s in creative writing from Sarah Lawrence College. She earned her doctorate in English and creative writing from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
Graduating Class of 2022 Names Teacher of the Year
Two members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2022 have been awarded 2022-2023 Fulbright grants, the prestigious international academic exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government that awards competitive, merit-based scholarships for recipients to spend a year conducting research or teaching abroad.
Through the 2022-2023 Fulbright U.S. Student Program, Peter Amicucci ’22 won a Fulbright-Lappeeranta University of Technology Graduate Award to Finland, and Crysta O’Donnell ’22 won an English Teaching Assistantship to Andorra.
Widely considered to be the premier international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government, the Fulbright program awards grants based on the recipients’ records of academic achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential in their fields.
“Both graduates will benefit greatly from their Fulbright experience. Crysta’s aptitude for languages and appreciation of different cultures make her well-suited for a career in foreign service. Peter will absorb and learn sustainable supply chain management practices from a world-renowned institution and put that knowledge into practice throughout his career,” said Susan Trussler, Ph.D., associate professor of economics and finance and The University of Scranton’s Fulbright Program Advisor.
Since 1972, a total of 127 University students have been awarded Fulbrights.
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is funded through an annual appropriation made by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Participating governments and host institutions, corporations, and foundations around the world also provide direct and indirect support to the program, which operates in more than 160 countries worldwide.
Peter Amicucci, Poughquag, New York
Growing up in the scenic Hudson Valley, Peter Amicucci has always been in awe of nature.
“I enjoy hiking and just being in nature. Mount Beacon is a favorite spot that I go to throughout the year with my family and friends. The views are beautiful,” said Amicucci. “Being near the Hudson River also made me aware of the damage pollution can have on the environment, as well as the positive impact of clean-up initiatives. That’s where my interest in sustainability began.”
Amicucci studied sustainable practices in his coursework at Scranton. His class in Quality Management included the study of environmental management systems.
As a Fulbright student, he plans to learn even more about sustainable practices.
Amicucci will pursue a two-year Master of Science degree in economics and business administration with a concentration in supply management at Lappeeranta University of Technology in Finland. Dr. Anni-Kaisa Kankonen, vice dean of academic affairs and professor of supply management at Lappeeranta University will serve as his mentor.
“Lappeeranta University of Technology is known for its expertise in supply chain management and Finland is one of the most sustainable countries in the world,” said Amicucci.
The focus of his research will be on sustainable supply chains specifically for the tourism industry. He will look for ways to make ecofriendly improvements throughout the supply chain of the service sector. His planned courses include “Green Logistics” and a project course on “Sustainable Business.” He will also take courses on Finnish language and culture.
His ultimate goal is to create a consulting firm that specializes in helping businesses in the tourism industry, such as hotels, theme parks and commercial transportation companies, develop and support their sustainability efforts in the procurement, manufacturing and delivery of their goods and services.
In addition to course studies, Amicucci plans to immerse himself in the local Finnish community through his love of music and sports. He has played the trumpet since the fourth grade and was a member of the University’s Performance Music Concert Band and Strings Ensemble. He was also a member of Scranton’s varsity wrestling team. In Finland, he plans to join a music ensemble and a wrestling club.
Amicucci earned a bachelor’s degree in operations management, summa cum laude, from Scranton with minors in mathematics and business analytics. He is also a member of the Business Honors Program, one of the University’s five programs of excellence. At Class Night, he received the University’s Excellence in Operations Management Award.
A Dean’s List student at Scranton, Amicucci was inducted into Omicron Delta Epsilon, (international economics honor society), and Alpha Sigma Nu (national Jesuit honor society), where he served as vice president. In the 2021, he came in sixth place in both Future Business Executive and Organizational Behavior and Leadership at the Phi Beta Lambda National Leadership Conference, and came in first place for Future Business Executive and second place for Organizational Behavior and Leadership at the 2021 Pennsylvania State Leadership Conference Qualifier. He was the president and founder of Scranton’s Phi Beta Lambda chapter. He was also a member of the Business Club, PRISM (Portfolio of Responsible Investment Under Student Management), Business Honors Club and the Student Athlete Advisory Committee.
His semester studying abroad at Fordham University London Centre was cut short in 2020 due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the summer of 2021, he participated with about 200 college students from across the country in a leadership development internship at Hershey Park.
In the greater Scranton community, he volunteered with Big Friends, Little Friends.
Crysta O’Donnell, Riegelsville, Pennsylvania
Crysta O’Donnell was born in Nicaragua in a multi-ethnic home where French and Spanish were spoken daily.
As a Fulbright Teaching Assistant, O’Donnell will travel to Andorra, a small country that borders Spain and France, where both Spanish and French are dominant languages. She will teach English and American culture at an Andorran School.
“Andorra’s official language is Catalan,” said O’Donnell, who looks forward to learning yet another language. “As a Fulbright student, I will also have the opportunity to learn and practice Catalan.”
Languages come easily to O’Donnell, who learned English at a very young age at a prestigious elementary school she attended. She is fluent in Spanish and English and advanced in French. She also has a natural love and interest in learning about different cultures.
The Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship award will also allow her to develop her other passions: teaching and diplomacy.
O’Donnell enjoyed teaching her younger sisters the languages she mastered. While serving as an English as a Second Language tutor at Scranton, she developed creative approaches to helping students learn English.
“I used images, art and songs by popular artists to help students understand the words, meanings and culture,” said O’Donnell. “I plan to do the same with my students in Andorra.”
O’Donnell’s interest in a future career as a diplomat began when she and her mother and sisters emigrated to the United States. She saw first-hand the challenges and barriers faced by those entering the country, as well as the importance of the resources and assistance others can provide. O’Donnell wants to be a resource to others in the future.
As a Fulbright student, O’Donnell will also volunteer to coach youth soccer. In addition, she will research how the cultural and linguistic diversity of Andorra’s people relates to their allegiance and engagement with the sport of soccer.
O’Donnell earned a bachelor’s degree in international studies and Hispanic studies, summa cum laude, from Scranton with a minor in French and a concentration in Latin American studies.
A Dean’s List student, O’Donnell was inducted into Alpha Mu Gamma (national foreign language honor society), Phi Alpha Theta (international history honor society) and Pi Sigma Alpha (national political science honor society). At Scranton, she was president of the Spanish Cultural Society and a member of the Mountain Sports Club, the Archery Club and the Fencing Club. She also volunteered the University’s Leahy Clinic, serving as an interpreter for migrant families.
$content.getChild('content').textValueTwo Class of 2022 Graduates Win Fulbrights
George Aulisio, Dean of the Weinberg Memorial Library, is pleased to announce the winners of the 2022 Bonnie W. Oldham Library Research Prize competition.
This year’s winning projects in the three prize categories are:
Undergraduate Foundational Winner: Corinne Rose Smith, for the project, Aspirin: Your Body’s Best Friend or Enemy?, completed in WRTG 107: Composition for Prof. Dawn D'Aries Zera
Undergraduate Upper-level Winner: Gabrielle Allen, for the project, The Effects of Exercise on Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder: An Evidence Review, completed in OT 350: Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods for Dr. Ann Romanosky
Graduate Winner: Colleen Berry, Jamie Hreniuk, Bryan Gorczyca, and Nicholas Capobianco, for the project, The Effectiveness of Complementary/Alternative Medicine for Pain Management in Postpartum Women: A Systematic Review, completed in PT 773: Scientific Inquiry III for Physical Therapy for Dr. Renée Hakim
Currently celebrating its 11th year, the Weinberg Memorial Library inaugurated the prize in 2011 to recognize excellence in research projects that show evidence of significant knowledge of the methods of research and the information gathering process, and use of library resources, tools, and services. In 2017, the prize was named for Professor Emerita Bonnie W. Oldham, who founded the prize at the University in 2011.
The Bonnie W. Oldham Library Research Prize was fully endowed in 2019 and consists of a prize of $500 awarded to winning projects in each of the three categories: Undergraduate Foundational (100-level projects), Undergraduate Upper-level (200- to 400-level projects), and Graduate. This year’s winning projects and descriptions of the research process submitted by student winners will be deposited into the University of Scranton Student Scholarship digital collection this summer.
The following projects were selected by the judges as Honorable Mentions:
Undergraduate Foundational Honorable Mention:
Sarah Boyle, for the project, The Population Below the Poverty Line, completed in CHS 111: Intro to Human Adjustment for Dr. Paul Datti
Undergraduate Upper-level Honorable Mentions:
Alexis Angstadt, for the project, The Efficacy of Combined Mirror Therapy and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Amputees with Phantom Limb Pain: An Evidence Review, completed in OT 350: Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods for Dr. Carol Coté
Amanda Lauren Serafin, for the project, Integrating ESG into the Accounting Curriculum: Insights from Accounting Educators, completed in ACC 489H: ESG/CSR Reporting Research for Prof. Ashley Stampone
Prize winners were honored at a reception on Thursday, May 12, 2022 in the Charles Kratz Scranton Heritage Room of the Weinberg Memorial Library.
A special thank you to the judges of this year’s competition: Amye Archer, Deborah Budash, Marzia Caporale, Marian Farrell, Eugeniu Grigorescu, Michael Landram, Bonnie Markowski, Bill Miller, Ian O’Hara, Sylvia Orner, and Sheli Pratt-McHugh.
2022 Bonnie W. Oldham Library Research Prize Winners
The new Operations and Analytics Club on campus hosted educational forums, guest speakers and panels this past year, including the Female Leaders in Business Panel in spring 2022.
The mission of the club, according to David Mahalak, faculty specialist in the KSOM Operations and Analytics Department and club co-moderator, is to educate students about the latest trends, content, internship and employment opportunities in the fields of business analytics and operations management. It's also to connect students with business leaders and alumni, discuss special topics/interests in the fields of business analytics and operations management and implement service for the local community.
"Over this academic year, we accomplished all the above," said Mahalak. "I realized there was a great opportunity to link the material we were learning in my STAT 251 class with creating an environment for students to relax, decompress, have fun, and connect with one another/faculty, and help our local community."
The club created and hosted its first-ever Casino Night at the end of the semester, for which the group collected non-perishable food items and toys that were donated to the CSSJ and distributed to the local community.
Operations and Analytics Club's First Year is a Success
The University of Scranton conferred more than 500 master’s and doctoral degrees at its graduate commencement ceremony on May 21 at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre. Degrees were conferred to graduates who had completed their academic degree requirements in August and December of 2021, as well as January and May of 2022.
At the ceremony, the University conferred doctor of business administration degrees, doctor of nursing practice degrees and doctor of physical therapy degrees, in addition to master’s degrees in various disciplines. Graduates represented 34 states, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Washington, among others. Students also represented Puerto Rico, Saudi Arabia, India, Mexico and France. The programs with the most graduates were the master of business administration, master of health administration, master of accountancy, master of occupational therapy and doctor of physical therapy.
Degrees were conferred by Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, upon candidates presented by Victoria Castellanos, Ph.D., dean of the Panuska College of Professional Studies; Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; and Michael Mensah, Ph.D., interim dean of the Kania School of Management. Also speaking at the ceremony was Joseph L. Sorbera, III ’08, president of the University’s Alumni Society, and Jeff Gingerich, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. Margarete Zalon, Ph.D., professor of nursing, provided the Benediction and Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton, provided the Invocation.
An archived recording of the ceremony can be seen here.
University Confers Master’s and Doctoral Degrees
The University of Scranton conferred more than 850 bachelor’s degrees at its undergraduate commencement ceremony on May 21 at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre. Degrees were conferred to graduates who had completed their academic degree requirements in August and December of 2021, as well as January and May of 2022.
Members of the University’s undergraduate class of 2022 represent 14 states, including Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Undergraduate majors with the most graduates are nursing, biology, occupational therapy, finance and psychology.
Margaret Mary Fitzpatrick S.C., Congregational Leader for the Sisters of Charity, Halifax, Canada; and Lawrence R. Lynch, former chair of The University of Scranton Board of Trustees and recently retired assurance partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP; received honorary degrees from the University of Scranton at the ceremony. Rev. Herbert B. Keller, S.J., vice president for Mission and Ministry at Scranton, served as the principal speaker. Father Keller received an honorary doctoral degree from the University in 2006.
“Your superior college education is a gift given, but given for a purpose, given with an obligation: to give back to those with whom you journey in this life,” said Father Keller in his remarks. “Your journey continues now, and you’re not the same as when you began your journey here four years ago. You are not the same because of the ways that you have connected with others; what you have come to know about yourself, this world, your family, your friends, and your God. You leave this arena today to continue your journey on this planet and you do so with changed hearts because your hearts have connected with others. And if you are open to this world and God’s grace, that change in your hearts will continue.”
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, addressed the graduates at the ceremony and conferred degrees upon candidates presented by Victoria Castellanos, Ph.D., dean of the Panuska College of Professional Studies; Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; and Michael Mensah, Ph.D., interim dean of the Kania School of Management.
Avianna Antoinette Carilli ’22 spoke on behalf of the class of 2022. Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton, provided the Invocation and University Trustee Jacquelyn Dionne provided the Benediction. Also speaking at the ceremony were Jeff Gingerich, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, and Joseph L. Sorbera, III ’08, president of the University’s Alumni Society.
An archived recording of the ceremony can be seen here.
Scranton Holds Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony
Undergraduate Commencement: Saturday, May 21 - Mohegan Sun Arena, Wilkes-Barre.
Principal Speaker: Rev. Herbert B. Keller, S.J., vice president for Mission and Ministry at Scranton.
Honorary Degree Recipients: Margaret Mary Fitzpatrick S.C., Congregational Leader for the Sisters of Charity, Halifax, Canada; and Lawrence R. Lynch, former chair of The University of Scranton Board of Trustees and recently retired assurance partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP.
Master’s and Doctoral Degree Commencement: Saturday, May 21 - Mohegan Sun Arena, Wilkes-Barre.
Total graduates: more than 1,350
Total doctoral degrees: more than 65 (DPT, DNP, DBA)
Total master’s degrees: more than 440
Total bachelor’s degrees: more than 850
Prestigious scholarships won by class of 2022 undergraduates: Fulbright scholarships (the U.S. government’s premier scholarship program for overseas graduate study, research and teaching).
States represented by undergraduates: 14
States represented by post-baccalaureate graduates: 34
Top undergraduate programs of study: nursing, biology, occupational therapy, finance and psychology.
Top graduate programs of study: master of business administration, master of health administration, master of accountancy, master of occupational therapy and doctor of physical therapy.
Quick Facts: Commencement 2022
The University of Scranton will partner with the international defense and security company, Jacobs, to prepare students and professionals for careers in cyber intelligence, law enforcement and cybersecurity. Through the partnership, initiated by U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright, Jacobs will offer advice on the fast-changing field to support and keep current the University’s cyber-related undergraduate and graduate curriculum in cybercrime investigation, homeland security and cybersecurity. Jacobs will also be a source of internships for University students and a source of job placement for University graduates. In addition, Jacobs will engage-in and support the University’s summer Cyber Investigation Camp for local high school students.
“It was my privilege to play a role in establishing a partnership between The University of Scranton and Jacobs. This strategic partnership has great potential to raise the profile of educational and professional training opportunities in the region as well as affording good-paying job opportunities.” said Rep. Cartwright. “Nearly every aspect of our lives is online and, sadly, cybercrime and cyberterrorism are real threats in this day and age. That is why this training is so important for this growing industry when it comes to defending personal information, public institutions and the nation.”
Jacobs provides a full spectrum of professional services including consulting, technical, scientific and project delivery for the government and private sector. Their services range from intelligence to infrastructure, sustainability, cybersecurity and space exploration. They work with government entities, corporations and law enforcement agencies globally. In the United States, Jacobs supports 12 of the 18 U.S. intelligence agencies for cyber threat hunting, cybersecurity operations and solutions, cyber intelligence analysis and cyber-offensive and defensive training development.
“For years at Jacobs, we’ve started every meeting with a Culture of Caring moment – a daily reminder of ways to keep ourselves and our communities safe including mental health, emotional wellbeing, professional development, inclusion, and diversity. We look to this partnership as a way to mentor and enlighten the cyber professionals of tomorrow,” said Retired General Bruce Crawford, Jacobs Senior Vice President for Strategic Development and Critical Mission Solutions.
“Collaboration between academia and industry is key to addressing the pressing global challenges – cyber threats and cyber defense – that face our society,” said Dr. Sinchul Back, assistant professor/director of cybercrime and cybersecurity for Scranton’s Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Criminology.
Jacobs will also support the University’s second annual Royal Cyber Investigation Camp for local high school students planned for July 12 to July 15 this summer. In addition to funding support for the camp, which is offered free of charge, Jacobs staff members will participate as instructors. Jacobs will also host the high school students at their office in the Washington, D.C., area on the final day of the camp.
The University of Scranton began to offer a bachelor’s degree in cybercrime and homeland security in the fall of 2020 and will begin to offer a master’s degree program in cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity beginning in the fall 2022. Students participating in these programs have access to hands-on programming and research opportunities offered through the University’s Center for the Analysis and Prevention of Crime.
“Well-prepared cyber intelligence and cybersecurity professionals are needed locally and across the country. To fill this gap, University’s like ours need to partner with industry leaders like Jacobs. Our shared culture of caring for individuals at the University and at Jacobs, ensures that this partnership will result in substantial benefit to our students and community,” said Michael Jenkins, Ph.D., chairman of the Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Criminology at The University of Scranton.
University of Scranton/Jacobs Cyber Intelligence Partnership Announced
Scranton students refuse to limit education to the classroom. Likewise, professors encourage and embrace research to broaden and deepen students' educational experience.
Julia Guzman, Ed.D., taught previously at the University as a professor of occupational therapy. She talks here about how she involved students in her research and the testing of a handwriting instrument that she designed for children.
VIDEO: Faculty Involving Students in Research
Where to sit, where to stream, what to wear! Find the answers to your Commencement-related questions here.
Graduates, need "day of" questions answered?
Find out about meals, details about the undergraduate ceremony (including what to wear and what personal items you can bring), the graduate ceremony and academic attire by visiting scranton.edu/commencement.
Find out about timing, seating charts and more via these links.
Need information about meals?
On Commencement weekend, there are no guest meals. Flex can be used in dining locations, POD and SBUX. All remaining flex will be lost if not used before Saturday, May 21, 2022.
Saturday, May 21, 2022
Dinner 4:00pm-7:00pm – 1st Floor DeNaples Center
Sunday, May 22, 2022
Breakfast 8:30am-11:00am - 1st Floor DeNaples Center
Lunch 11:30am-3:00pm –1st Floor DeNaples Center
Dinner 4:00pm to 7:00pm –1st Floor DeNaples Center
Monday, May 23, 2022
Breakfast 8:30am-11:00am – 1st Floor DeNaples Center
Lunch 11:00am to 2:00pm – 1st Floor DeNaples Center
Find out more, here.
Live Stream Events
Find links to all the live streamed events at scranton.edu/commencement.
Use #Royals2022
Post on social media using #Royals2022 for a chance to be featured on the scranton.edu/commencement page. Make sure your profile is public.
More News
Read more news about the events in a recent Royals News story, here.
Commencement FAQ
University of Scranton President Joseph G. Marina, S.J., sent “A Message on Buffalo and Other Recent Acts of Violence” to the University community.
Dear Friends,
Over the weekend, our nation learned of three tragic acts of violence – a mass shooting at a flea market in Houston, Texas, a church in Laguna Woods, California, and a third at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York.
While all three tragedies were senseless and outrageous attacks on the dignity of human life, for the shooting at the Tops Market in Buffalo, the motive now seems clear. As a nation, we must continue to face the evil and arrogance of racism and white supremacy. In this, we join our sister Jesuit institution, Canisius College in Buffalo, in standing in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in the Black community of Buffalo, Scranton and across the country. As a Catholic and Jesuit university, we must be a beacon of love and healing as well as a voice against injustice, intolerance and hatred in all its forms.
Please pray today and in the days ahead for all who were killed, injured and traumatized and for those who care for and support them. Let us also pray and work for a society built on peace and justice with a genuine concern for human dignity and all of creation.
“Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness” (1 John 2:9).
Yours faithfully,
Joseph G. Marina, S.J.
President
President Message on Recent Acts of Violence
Senior Emily Schum (East Hanover, N.J./Morris Catholic) of The University of Scranton women's lacrosse team garnered Landmark Defensive Player of the Year honors for a second straight year, while senior James Harrington (West Chester, Pa./Malvern Prep) of the men's tennis team nabbed Player of the Year accolades to lead the Royals' All-Conference selections this spring.
For more on that and the rest of this week's Royal Review, click here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Schum, Harrington Garner Landmark Major Awards
The University’s Prison Education Program at the State Correctional Institution at Dallas “provides an opportunity for the cultivation of human dignity at the heart of a Jesuit education,” according to program director Christopher Haw, Ph.D., assistant professor of theology and religious studies.
Through the program, inmates can take general education college-credit courses to earn an Associate of Arts degree from the University, which Haw hopes will one day grow into a bachelor’s program. The courses are taught by University professors on-site at the correctional facility. Currently, 14 inmates are enrolled in the program, which began in the fall 2021 semester.
Participants can earn 60 credits for an associate’s degree in just two and a half years. Inmates had to apply for admission and be interviewed and accepted to participate in the program. The program is currently running another round of admissions to increase the cohort to 28 students.
“The courses have the same rigor as those taught on campus, with the same outcome expectations, only the approach to the material is adapted to the learners,” said Haw.
Will Cohen, Ph.D., a professor of theology at Scranton, taught one of two introductory theology courses at the prison this past semester.
“I've loved teaching the students in this program,” he said. “Each class, because we meet just once a week, goes for three hours, and each time I'm amazed at how fast it goes. I always leave freshly reminded that human beings are made for contemplation, for deep reflection and dialogue. At least when it's oriented toward the good, the true and the beautiful for which we all yearn, it's intrinsically joyful. I feel this very powerfully from my students at the Dallas prison.”
The Prison Education Program was highlighted at a panel discussion on campus in April featuring Cohen, Haw and other University faculty members who taught in the program. It also featured special guest Darryl Byers-Robinson, an alumnus of the Bard Prison Initiative who was featured in the documentary “College Behind Bars.”
Prison Education Program Offers Degrees to Inmates
This spring Community-Based Learning faculty and students at The University of Scranton engaged with the youth in Scranton through multiple outreach projects with community-partner organizations. From science activities to writing workshops, University faculty and students took their expertise and knowledge from the classroom to the Scranton community. In turn, University community members learned more about the youth in the city of Scranton along with the issues they face and their aspirations for the future.
Science Youth Outreach
Declan Mulhall, Ph.D., professor of physics and engineering, and students in the Royal Scholars program organized meetings with United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s (UNC) “Leaders In Training” program at the start and end of the spring semester. The Royals Scholars program is a National Science Foundation grant-funded scholarship program focusing on assisting students in developing their identities as STEM professionals, exploring careers in STEM and taking steps along the appropriate pathways to these careers to improve the STEM workforce. University students from this program shared how they became interested in STEM, their current research and the career path they plan to follow with youth from UNC’s LIT program in their first meeting in February. LIT students in turn shared their own interests and aspirations. The two groups met up again at the end of April 2022 to follow up to see how plans were developing, check in and enjoy a pizza party together.
University faculty and students from the Biology Department offered a variety of science educational events for 4th-grade students at community-partner school McNichols Elementary Plaza. On April 9 and 10 University students from the Magis Honors Program in STEM led by biology professor and Magis Program director Janice Voltzow, Ph.D., offered three virtual presentations via Zoom to McNichols Plaza’s 4th grade. University of Scranton students shared information on some of the small animals they are currently researching in its Loyola Science Center (LSC). The Magis presentations included: on Monday, May 9; “Salamanders” by Cloe Capalongo, Cabre Capalongo, Nathaniel Smith, and Fione Evans; on Tuesday, May 10; “Zebrafish” by Angela Hudock, Taylor Moglia, Theresa Pham, Katie Regan, and Michael Howard; and “House Wrens” by Meg McGrath, Sarah White, Danica Sinson, and Julia Turnak.
Later that week on Thursday, May 12, University of Scranton biology students and professors Jong-Hyun Son, Ph.D., and Vincent R. Farallo, Ph.D., took hands-on science displays including some reptiles and amphibians from the LSC to enthusiastic 4th grade students at McNichols Plaza for a “Synapse” activity. 58 McNichols 4th-grade students rotated through six stations, each offering an opportunity to learn about these small animals and even to see and touch them up close while learning more about them. University biology students Charles Dominick ’22, Amanda Gerenza ’22, Maame Addison ’23 and Mario Luzuriaga ’24 hosted stations along with Drs. Son and Farallo with Madagascar hissing cockroaches, crayfish, zebrafish, salamanders, frogs and earthworms.
Career Exploration
This spring, Dana Brookover, Ph.D., NCC, assistant professor in the Counseling and Human Services Department, and her graduate students in COUN 507 Career & Lifestyle Counseling course partnered with Junior Achievement of NEPA (JA) to work with seven Scranton schools to offer JA lessons on career path exploration and planning that included: 1st grade "Our Families," 3rd grade "Our City," and 5th grade "Our Nation."
"The chance to engage in this CBL project with the help of The University of Scranton [Office of Community-Based Learning] and the Junior Achievement (JA) organization was an incredible opportunity. My students and I got the chance to meet students and teachers in the Scranton community and support public school education,” said Brookover.
For this project, Brookover’s Career Counseling graduate students were onboarded by JA as volunteers and trained in their curriculum prior to their placements. When an additional Scranton school requested a partnership with JA, Brookover offered to serve as an instructor.
She continued, “It's never too early to begin learning about these topics, and JA provided us with lessons that were interactive and fun! The best part was how excited the students were to see us each time we visited the classroom. For the counseling students enrolled in the career counseling course, it also provided them with the opportunity to learn hands-on how important and fun talking about career readiness can be."
CBL Talks Program
To help prepare her students, Brookover brought students in her course to this spring’s “CBL Talk: Youth in Scranton” on February, 16. Offered by the Office of Community-Based Learning, the CBL Talks series focuses on important community topics and issues in the greater Scranton area in order to share information with University students and empower them to become a part of positive change in the community. This spring’s talk featured guest speakers Mina Ardestani, principal at McNichols Elementary Plaza and founder of Presence from Prison, and Maureen Maher-Gray, executive director and founder of the NEPA Youth Shelter, who discussed the city of Scranton’s youth population, the challenges they face, and the hopes and aspirations of the youth that they serve.
“The CBL Talks programming offers an important opportunity for University students to learn more about the Scranton area and then engage in post-event reflection on vital community topics and issues that help to build the necessary foundational understanding needed for strong community-based learning collaborations,” said Carolyn M. Bonacci, community and civic engagement coordinator and CBL Board member.
This talk aligned with the Jesuit universal apostolic preference “Journey with Youth” in which Superior General, Fr. Arturo Sosa, S.J., has called on all of us to “accompany young people in the creation of a hope-filled future.”
Literacy and Physical Wellness
In another CBL partnership, education students in Dr. Jennifer Kaschak’s EDUC 371 Literacy Strategies course partnered with the Scranton Children’s Library to offer a series of workshops in April on topics including: History, “Women in the Early Space Program,” English & Language Arts and Spanish “¡Vamos! Let's Go to the Market,” and Math for Preschoolers “Counting 0-10.” For each session, Kaschak’s students researched children’s books on their topic, created an interactive activity, and then offered sessions that included a "read aloud" of their topical book.
From physical therapy, students in Jennifer J. Schwartz, DPT, NCS’s PT 755 Teaching and Learning in PT course organized group presentations and activities for 10 different community-partner organizations, which included three Scranton grade schools. DPT students offered active learning sessions to educate youth on nutrition, exercise, and what PT is. Scranton schools served include: 2nd graders at John Adams Elementary, 3rd and 4th graders at McNichols Plaza, and students from John F. Kennedy Elementary.
Scranton’s Story Youth Engagement
Additional spring youth partnerships included youth engagement events connected to the University’s “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” National Endowment for the Humanities supported project.
On March 29, students from UNC’s “Leaders In Training” program visited the University’s Hope Horn Gallery for activities connected to its spring exhibition, “Mapping Shinnecock. Sites and Portraits. By Jeremy Dennis.” LIT students were provided with a gallery talk by gallery director Dr. Darlene Miller-Lanning that highlighted important themes and issues surrounding Indigenous communities and culture raised by Dennis in his work before visiting the exhibition. LIT students engaged in a “continuous drawing” activity to create portraits as a way of exploring identity.
Additional “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project events included two youth writing workshops provided by Billie Tadros, Ph.D., assistant professor of English, and her students Jonathan Wieland ’22 and Oak O’Connor ’22 at the NEPA Youth Shelter on April 27 and May 11. Both writing workshops used poetic techniques and forms as instructive models for generating writing and storytelling.
“What these workshops do, which is even more important than introducing young writers to forms of poetry and storytelling, is acknowledge youth as experts in their own experiences, with their own stories to tell, and establish space and community for dialogue and listening,” said Tadros.
These workshops were offered in conjunction with the University’s “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story”, which focuses on telling the story of Scranton and our nation through the history and experiences of the people in our region. These workshops build upon a fall workshop offered by Dr. Hank Willenbrink, Professor of English and Theatre and his student Jon at the NEPA Youth Shelter this past fall, with the goal, as Tadros shared, to “empower the students at the NEPA Youth Shelter to use their voices as writers and storytellers, and also empowered the two University of Scranton students I had the privilege of working with to use their own voices as facilitators and witnesses.”
This approach, to recognize the expertise and experiences of the youth that others encounter, is another essential practice for community-based learning. For Tadros, inspiration came from writer and teacher Felicia Rose Chavez and her recent best-selling book, The Anti-racist Writing Workshop: How to Decolonize the Creative Classroom who Tadros quotes in discussing how students come to writing classrooms “as experts in their own right, complete with a unique storytelling tradition” and that “[l]istening is the first and most important step for maintaining a storytelling tradition.’”
To learn more about the University’s Office of Community-Based Learning, please visit scranton.edu/cbl.
CBL Faculty and Students Focus on Youth in Scranton This Spring
One hundred twenty-seven students mentored by 50 faculty members presented 64 projects at the Celebration of Student Scholars, held on campus April 27. The annual event, held in the Loyola Science Center, provides a forum for students to present their work conducted in collaboration with faculty.
Poster presentations included:
“Cyber Espionage: Who is it Targeting?” by cybercrime and homeland security major Emily McAlarney, Staten Island, New York, with faculty mentor Sinchul Back, Ph.D., assistant professor of sociology, criminal justice and criminology;
“Exploring the Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility on Brand Equity: an Empirical Study” by Business Honors Program members Phillip Cocco, an accounting major from Pittston, and Caitlin Schreiber, business administration major from Clarence Center, New York, with faculty mentor Rose Sebastianelli, Ph.D., professor of operations and analytics;
“Loneliness in Older Adults with Visual Impairment” by occupational therapy majors Kelly Corcoran, Pittstown, New Jersey; Crisel Divinagracia, West Nyack, New York; Emily Erickson, Floral Park, New York; Rachel Fernandez, Tunkhannock; Jadriane Hernandez, Staten Island, New York; Daniel Shuck, Bethlehem; and Kate Wisner, Hanover; with faculty mentor Julie Nastasi, O.T.D., Sc.D., assistant professor of occupational therapy;
“Navigational Failures in Ants due to Agonists/Antagonists of Serotonin” by Magis Honors Program in STEM member Nathaniel Smith, a neuroscience major from Wilkes-Barre, with faculty mentor Marc Seid, Ph.D., associate professor of biology.
“Catholicism and the New Sciences: Descartes’ Break with Aristotle” by Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program member Adrianna Smith, a philosophy and theology double major from Covington Township, with faculty mentor Christopher Fremaux, Ph.D., assistant professor of philosophy;
“Seasonal difference in leukocyte counts in Gray Catbirds” by biology major Maggie Kowalewski, Forest City, with faculty mentor Robert Smith, Ph.D., professor of biology;
“Parasite Load in Breeding Gray Catbirds with Respect to Age and Weather” by Katie Nebzydoski, Pleasant Mount, with faculty mentor Robert Smith, Ph.D., professor of biology;
“The Effect of Ambient Light at Night on Melanophores in Anole Lizards” by Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program member Mary Cabassa, a biology and philosophy double major fromMountain Lakes, New Jersey, and biology major Kaylie Levinsky, Moscow, with faculty mentor Gary Kwiecinski, Ph.D., professor of biology;
“Zinc sulfate as a neurotoxin: The role of the medial habenula in regulating anosmia-induced anxiety-like behavior” by neuroscience major Jillian Haller, Williston Park, New York, with faculty mentor Jong-Hyun Son, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology
Fields of research presented at the Celebration of Student Scholars included biology, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, chemistry, criminal justice, cybercrime and homeland security, electrical engineering, history, marketing management, neuroscience, occupational therapy, philosophy, physical therapy, physics and theology, among others.
$content.getChild('content').textValueScranton Celebrates Student Scholars
According to Teach.com, “Regardless of temporary economic conditions, hiring practices, budget cuts or any other factors that impact the education system, the need for teachers is timeless and universal. Society will always need educators, and in that respect, teaching is one career in which you can be confident you will always have a purpose.”
The U.S. News and World Report reports that the average median salary for high school teachers is $56,310.
At The University of Scranton, students can earn a Bachelor of Science degree in secondary education with a dual degree in a specific content area. Content area focuses offered are biology, chemistry, citizenship with history or political science, communication, English, French, general science, German, Latin, mathematics, physics, and Spanish.
Secondary education coursework explores educational psychology, assessment, methods of instruction and teaching diverse learners. Taught by experienced faculty in small class sizes, these courses give students the opportunity to develop important professional relationships with peers and professors.
With hands-on teaching experiences beginning as early as the first year of study, students can take advantage of Scranton’s mutually beneficial partnerships with private/Catholic schools in the area.
Recent Scranton graduates can be found working for a variety of school districts including Abington Height School District, Quakertown, Pennsylvania School District and Teach for America.
Educating a New Generation of Educators
The World Languages and Cultures Department asks a few of its seniors what it is like to major in Hispanic studies.
Katia Ramirez is also a history major with a Latinx and Latin American studies concentration. When talking about her reason for pursuing a Hispanic studies major, Ramirez said, “Dr. Silva inspired me to become a Hispanic studies major because we connected, and while talking, she made me realize that I needed to improve my Spanish skills. Even though I’m a native speaker, I realized I needed improvement in writing and speaking Spanish more professionally.”
Emily Allen is also a biology major with a minor in biochemistry. When asked about her plans after graduation and how she will use her Spanish skills, Allen said, “I’m going to medical school to eventually become an emergency medicine physician where I hope to use my Spanish speaking skills and understanding of the Spanish culture. I also hope to utilize my knowledge in Spanish to help with translating and interpreting at clinics.”
Carolina Murphy is also a finance major with a minor in business leadership. When talking about how she plans to use her language studies major, Murphy said, “I have a job in corporate finance at Vanguard where I will analyze the different department's resources and make financial plans.
Vanguard is a very large employer with a diverse workforce. They have resources such as a Hispanic organization where I look forward to sharing and continuing to build my skills in Spanish.”
Julia Snyder is also a business communication major. When asked what was her favorite language course and why, Snyder said, “Spanish Composition (SPAN 312) because I truly enjoyed reading the different articles and novels in Spanish. I was also able to improve my Spanish conversation and writing skills.”
Crysta O’Donnell is also an international studies major with a minor in French and a concentration in Latin American studies. When asked why one should someone study another language, O’Donnell said, “All students should take advantage of the language courses offered here, because languages can help them explore the world and different cultures, study abroad and make new connections.” O’Donnell will also utilize her Spanish skills next year as a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant in Andorra teaching English to students aged 12 to 18 years old.
If you have any questions about the World Languages and Cultures Department’s Hispanic studies program or are interested in learning about other language majors/minors offered by the department, be sure to check out the department’s Instagram, Facebook and Twitter or email Hannah Jackson at hannah.jackson@scranton.edu.
Hispanic Studies Majors Discuss Scranton Experience
ENI is your Employee Assistance Program provider here at The University of Scranton.
Free Confidential Assistance can be accessed at www.nexgeneap.com or 1-800-327-2255 or by downloading the mobile app: BalanceBenefits.
Total Wellbeing Newsletter - May Edition
Mental health is wealth, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month, which is celebrated in May. The stigma around mental health and treatment has long existed, even though this has started to change. Still, people hesitate to seek help or even talk about it with their loved ones for fear of being judged and facing unnecessary backlash. Simp le logic dictates that if we are hurt anywhere, we must seek treatment to get better. This applies to both our mental- and physical well-being. While Mental Health Awareness Month is celebrated in the U.S., a more universal day is also celebrated by the WHO on
October 10, and it is known as World Mental Health Day.
How to Observe Mental Health Awareness Month
1. Take care of yourself
Life has numerous ups and downs. Some are solvable but others not so much.
When your mental health acts up, seek the right treatment and make yourself better
because, after all, life has much more to offer than just pain and suffering.
2. Take care of your loved ones
Check up on your friends and family. Many times, all people need is a shoulder to cry
on and/or an ear to listen. Support and encourage them if they are being treated for
any mental problems.
3. Talk about mental health
One of the best ways to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month is by talking
about it with your peers. The more you talk about it, the more normalized it will
become. This is one of the aims of the month as the stigma attached to mental
health has led to countless delays in treatment AND research on the matter.
Why We Love Mental Health Awareness Month
1. It’s a celebration of mental health
The only way to enjoy life to the fullest and experience all its wonders is if we take
care of ourselves, mentally and physically. Don’t shy away from talking about what’s
plaguing you because it might not be your fault, no matter how much society tells
you otherwise.
2. It’s a celebration of changing attitudes
We have come a long way from the times when mental patients were treated as
outcasts, not only by their loved ones but also by medical professionals. Times have
started changing and more and more people are changing their outlook on mental
illnesses. However, we still have a long way to go.
3. It’s a celebration of humans
We humans are a set of meticulously-put-together details. Our minds (and bodies)
work in harmony to bring us amazing feats in technology, science, humanities,
literature, etc. Our mental power, therefore, needs to be taken care of for a
better tomorrow for the coming generations.
Please see links below for further resources:
https://www.eniweb.com
https://www.eniweb.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/May-Total-Wellbeing-2022.pdf
https://www.eniweb.com/wellness-newsletters/
Mental Health Awareness Month, ENI Newsletter
Tickets are now on sale for this weekend's Landmark Conference Baseball Tournament that will be held at Volpe Field in Scranton.
Ticket prices for the weekend are $8 for adults, $5 for children ages 10-17 and seniors (62+), while children ages nine and under are free. All students, faculty and staff with a valid Landmark Conference
All fans planning on attending the tournament are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance and a separate purchase must be made for each day of the tournament.
Click here to purchase tickets for this weekend and follow this link for a full schedule.
The top seeded Royals will host No. 4 seed Susquehanna to open postseason play on Friday afternoon at 3:30 p.m.
A full preview of this weekend's games will be posted tomorrow at athletics.scranton.edu.
Tickets Now on Sale for This Weekend's Landmark Baseball Tournament
The Center for Service & Social Justice is collecting donations for area nonprofit agencies in need in boxes throughout the residence halls, 1st and 2nd floors of DeNaples and the parking garage.
Items accepted: housewares, clothing, nonperishable food, small furniture, storage bins, electronics, toiletries, first aid, books, toys and sporting goods.
No large furniture, mattresses, pillows or bedding, please.
Donations will be accepted now through graduation and can also be dropped off at Arrupe House, Clay and Mulberry.
Contact Ellen.Judge@scranton.edu with questions.
Accepting Donations for End-of-the-Year Drive 2022
The University will host numerous events honoring members of its graduating class of 2022 on Friday, May 20, Saturday, May 21, and Sunday, May 22.
Friday evening events include the Donning of the Stole Ceremony in the Moskovitz Theatre, DeNaples 401, beginning at 4 p.m. A reception will follow on the DeNaples Patio. The Panuska College of Professional Studies (PCPS) Outstanding Graduate Awards Ceremony will take place at 4 p.m. in the Kane Forum of Leahy Hall. At 6 p.m., the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Cohort II Graduation Reception will be held in Brennan Hall on the fifth floor.
Also on Friday evening, undergraduates will be recognized for academic achievement, leadership and service at Class Night, which begins at 7:30 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center.
On Saturday, May 21, at 8 a.m., the University will conduct a pinning ceremony for nursing graduates in the Byron Recreation Complex. At 12 p.m., the University will hold the Doctor of Physical Therapy Graduation Awards Ceremony in the DeNaples McIlhenny Ballroom (room 407).
Also at 12 p.m., the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony will take place in the Mohegan Sun Arena. Rev. Herbert B. Keller, S.J., vice president for Mission and Ministry, will serve as the commencement speaker. Margaret Mary Fitzpatrick S.C., Congregational Leader for the Sisters of Charity, Halifax, Canada; and Lawrence R. Lynch, former chair of The University of Scranton Board of Trustees and recently retired assurance partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP; will receive honorary degrees from the University at the ceremony.
At 5 p.m. on Saturday, ROTC Army cadets will be commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army during a ceremony in the Kane Forum of Leahy Hall.
The University will hold its Graduate Commencement Ceremony at 5 p.m. in the Mohegan Sun Arena.
Saturday evening, at 8 p.m., the University will host the President’s Reception for Graduates and Parents in the Byron Recreation Complex. Tickets are required to attend this event.
On Sunday, May 22, the University will hold its Baccalaureate Mass at 10:30 a.m. in the Byron Recreation Complex. The President’s Picnic will take place on the DeNaples Patio and Dionne Campus Green immediately following the Mass. Guests planning to attend the picnic are asked to RSVP here.
Guests attending the events at the Mohegan Sun Arena can review their security procedures, which include a clear bag policy and security checkpoints, to assist with alleviating the time required for entry to the commencement ceremonies. Tickets are not required for the undergraduate and graduate commencement ceremonies.
The University will live video stream several of the commencement events. For additional information about the University’s 2022 commencement events, including live stream of events, visit scranton.edu/commencement. Also, post on social media using #Royals2022 for a chance to be featured on the University’s commencement page.
Commencement Events Celebrate Class of 2022
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, announced Victoria Castellanos, Ph.D., will serve as dean of the Panuska College of Professional Studies (PCPS), effective immediately, and Mark Higgins, Ph.D., will serve as dean of the Kania School of Management (KSOM) beginning July 1.
Dean Castellanos has served as the interim dean of PCPS since January 2022. She served as the associate dean of PCPS since 2012 when she joined The University of Scranton community. Read on, here.
Dr. Higgins currently serves as a professor of accounting at St. Louis University (SLU), a sister Jesuit university in Missouri. Read on, here.
PCPS and KSOM Deans Appointed
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, announced Victoria Castellanos, Ph.D., will serve as dean of the Panuska College of Professional Studies (PCPS), effective immediately. Dean Castellanos has served as the interim dean of PCPS since January 2022. She served as the associate dean of PCPS since 2012, when she joined The University of Scranton community.
“Her professionalism, dedication and leadership, in addition to her caring insightfulness, have greatly benefited the University and PCPS, and I look forward to continuing to work with her as dean,” said Father Marina in an announcement to the University community.
At Scranton, Dean Castellanos oversaw the PCPS undergraduate and graduate curriculum review process, the T.A.P.E.S.T.R.Y. professional development program and other PCPS projects and programs. She was also the college shepherd for the construction of Edward R. Leahy Jr. Hall. She has served on numerous committees at the University, including the Provost’s Committee on Academic Policy Compliance, the Strategic Enrollment Committee and the Faculty Handbook Committee, among many others.
Prior to her work at Scranton, Dean Castellanos served in a number of positions at Florida International University (FIU) from 1996 to 2012, including as the associate dean of the University Graduate School, the Ph.D. program director and the undergraduate didactic program director for the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition. She was also an associate professor of dietetics and nutrition at FIU.
Dean Castellanos has published dozens of articles about her research in the area of dietetics and has contributed several academic book chapters, in addition to presenting on her research at numerous conferences. During her career, she was awarded multiple U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services grants totally more than $850,000.
Dean Castellanos’ board memberships include Individual Abilities in Motion, The Arc of North Eastern Pennsylvania and The Arc of NEPA Foundation. Her professional memberships include the Dietitian’s Council on Quality Nursing Home Care, the American Society for Nutrition and the American Dietetic Association.
Dean Castellanos earned her bachelor’s degree from Montana State University and her master’s degree and Ph.D. in nutrition from the University of California. She completed a National Institutes of Health postdoctoral fellowship at Pennsylvania State University.
Panuska College of Professional Studies Dean Named
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, announced Mark Higgins, Ph.D., will serve as the Dean of the Kania School of Management beginning July 1. Dr. Higgins currently serves as a professor of accounting at St. Louis University (SLU), a sister Jesuit university in Missouri.
“I know from my conversations with him, along with the endorsements of his peers, that Dr. Higgins is deeply committed to our Catholic and Jesuit mission. We are fortunate as well to have someone of his exceptional experience and expertise,” said Father Marina in an announcement to the University community.
From 2015 to 2019, Dr. Higgins served as the Edward Jones Dean and Professor of Accounting at SLU’s Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business. During his tenure at SLU, he has worked with deans and faculty to repurpose facilities into a multipurpose data analytics lab for finance and a behavioral lab space for marketing; and has worked with faculty to revise SLU’s one-year, full-time MBA program to focus on data analytics and ethical leadership. He also helped to revise faculty support models at SLU to encourage publication in top-tier business journals, among other accomplishments.
Dr. Higgins has extensive experience with AACBS accreditation, widely considered the gold-standard of business school accreditations. The University of Scranton’s Kania School of Management holds AACBS accreditation. In 2016, he chaired SLU’s successful re-affirmation of AACSB accreditation for the undergraduate and graduate business programs and worked with the department chair and the accounting faculty to achieve initial accreditation for undergraduate and graduate accounting programs. He currently serves as chair of the AACSB Accounting Accreditation Policy Committee and is a member of the AACSB Business Accreditation Policy Committee. His professional memberships include the American Accounting Association, the American Taxation Association and the Missouri State Society of CPA’s. He received the American Accounting Association Service Award in 2015 and the American Taxation Association Lifetime Service Award in 2009.
Dr. Higgins earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of South Carolina and his Ph.D. in accounting from the University of Tennessee.
Kania School of Management Dean Named
For the third year in a row, student members of The University of Scranton’s Business Club selected Ashley L. Stampone ’10, G’11, DBA’22, assistant professor in the Accounting Department as the Kania School of Management Professor of the Year. The announcement was made at a virtual event on May 10. Prof. Stampone, who will graduate with her third degree from Scranton – a Doctor of Business Administration – next week, was also selected as KSOM Professor of the Year in 2020 and 2021.
In addition to Prof. Stampone, the business club students presented awards to several other faculty members. Aram Balagyozyan, Ph.D., assistant professor of economics, received the Economics and Finance Department Teacher of the Year Award. Greg O’Connell, J.D., faculty specialist, received the Management, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship Department Teacher of the Year Award. Richard O’Hara, faculty specialist, received the Accounting Department Teacher of the Year Award. Vincent Rocco, faculty specialists, received the Operations and Analytics Department Teacher of the Year Award.
An award-winning teacher, Prof. Stampone became a faculty member at her alma mater in 2016. In 2019, she was also honored with the Faculty Leadership Award from the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). The national award recognizes one faculty member annually who has demonstrated significant leadership activities at the national, regional, and/or local levels of IMA and has made additional contributions to IMA. In 2021, she won IMA’s Ursel K. Albers IMA Campus Advocate of the Year Award, which recognizes a campus advocate/student chapter advisor who has made significant contributions to the IMA overall and the IMA student members in particular. Prof. Stampone serves as the faculty advisor for the University’s IMA student chapter, which has been recognized as one of IMA five Outstanding Student Chapters in the nation for the past three consecutive years.
Also in 2021, Prof. Stampone received the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Young Leaders Award, which recognizes members under the age of 40 who demonstrate a commitment to the accounting profession through active PICPA or community volunteer activities. She was also recognized by Northeast Pennsylvania Business Journal in her selection to the area’s Top 20 Under 40, which is NEPA Business Journal’s “salute to the best and brightest young business stars in the region.”
Earlier in her career, Prof. Stampone worked as an internal auditor for QVC, Inc., as a senior financial systems analyst for Bridon American Corporation, as an inventory accountant for International Salt Company and as a staff accountant for ParenteBeard, LLC.
A resident of Old Forge, Prof. Stampone received a bachelor’s degree in accounting and an MBA from The University of Scranton. She will graduate with a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Scranton at the 2022 graduate commencement ceremony on May 21.
Dr. Balagyozyan joined the faculty at Scranton in 2011. He received a bachelor’s degree in economics from Yerevan State University, Yerevan, Armenia, and a doctorate in financial economics from the City University of New York.
Atty. O’Connell became a faculty specialist at Scranton in 2019. He previously served as an adjunct faculty member at the University since 1992. He received a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Pennsylvania and juris doctorate from John Marshall Law School in Chicago.
Prof. O’Hara, also became a faculty specialist at Scranton in 2019. He received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Pennsylvania State University and an MBA in finance from the Stern School of Business at New York University.
Prof. Rocco became a faculty specialist at Scranton in 2016. He also previously served as an adjunct instructor in the University’s Kania School of Management. He received a bachelor’s degree in finance and marketing from Saint Joseph’s University and an MBA from Wilkes University.
Students Pick 2022 KSOM Professor of the Year
On Saturday April 23, 2022, occupational therapy and physical therapy faculty members and students from the Panuska College of Professional Studies at The University of Scranton, in collaboration with the Bhutanese Cultural Foundation of Scranton Association, hosted a Health Fair at the Foundation’s headquarters at 705 Pittston Ave in Scranton. The Bhutanese Cultural Foundation aims to provide helpful programs for individuals to attend as well as organize community outreach initiatives to assist members of the Scranton and surrounding areas Bhutanese community.
“Since starting this program I have seen that the people who attend our events are very grateful to have opportunities like this available for them to partake in,” said Chandra Sitaula, founder of the Bhutanese Cultural Foundation. “They are very engaged and enthusiastic about the programs that we put together.”
The focus of the Health Fair event was to provide screening and health education for the Bhutanese refugee community, including: cardiovascular health and prevention, prenatal/postpartum screening and health, balance and fall risk/assessment, physical activity and fitness, stress reduction, activities of daily living, sleep quality and general infection control. This spring event is an expansion of the work of professor of physical therapy Lori Walton, Ph.D., DPT, MScPT, MPH, to provide health screenings and information to refugee communities that she and her students undertook in a Fall 2021 Community-Based Learning (CBL) course.
Three PT student leaders developed the handouts, checklists, and screening under faculty supervision. Occupational therapy students also participated in the event as a cross-disciplinary service. One of the event's faculty coordinators, occupational therapy assistant professor Michael Bermudez, Ed. D., OTR/L, said that the program was originally started as a way for occupational therapy and physical therapy students to interact disciplinarily in a community-based learning setting.
Walton said that the event took a great deal of collaborative effort to put together over four months, “From students researching to professors and Chandra [president of the Bhutanese Cultural Foundation] organizing students and participants, it was a large undertaking and collaboration,” Walton said.
Physical therapy faculty specialist Jennifer Schwartz, PT, DPT, NCS said that events like this are essential in preparing PCPS students for the workplace after graduation.
“Every opportunity to interact with people of different backgrounds allows them [students] to grow and be prepared,” Schwartz said. “We know all of our students are textbook ready but it is a whole other story when taking those skills and putting them to use in the field.”
The table fair brought attention to a variety of focused health issues through a series of surveys that participants took while traveling through each student-led station. Each station also had a Nepali-speaking translator that helped University students and Bhutanese participants engage effectively and with cultural sensitivity with survey questions and health solutions that came about from the surveys. Second-year physical therapy graduate student leader Hailey Kenyon operated a table that focused on gathering participants’ vital signs and providing them with feedback.
“Vitals are extremely important and can tell us a lot about a person's overall health,” Kenyon said. “Right now, we are taking blood pressure and measuring blood oxygen levels to see if they are good or not and if they should seek medical attention.”
Other stations at the event focused on how to sleep better, better wash hands and get better engaged in community and leisure activities. Student organizers and leaders for the event included Alesia Heimes (PT), Brianna Abrams (PT), Hailey Kenyon (PT), Sydney Zamboni (OT), Kyla Avant (OT), and Kathleen Diverio (OT).
Faculty and staff involved in organizing the program included: physical therapy professor Lori Walton Ph.D., DPT, MS, MPH(S), CLT; physical therapy faculty specialist Jennifer Schwartz, PT, DPT, NCS; assistant vice president of Community Engagement & Government Affairs and Community-Based Learning board chair Julie Schumacher Cohen; physical therapy department chair Renee Hakim, PT, Ph.D., NCS; and occupational therapy assistant professor Michael Bermudez, Ed. D., OTR/L.
“What Chandra Sitaula has done with the Bhutanese Cultural Foundation is remarkable in providing a Bhutanese-run community hub. We are glad to partner with him to provide services and resources that the Bhutanese community identifies as priorities and to do so in culturally-sensitive ways and with Nepali language translation. We have learned so much from our refugee neighbors through these kinds of partnerships and we can see here, especially how this kind of CBL helps prepare our students to be health professionals in a globally interconnected world,” said Schumacher Cohen.
Community-based learning collaborations such as this offer University of Scranton students with opportunities to engage with and learn from the greater Scranton community while also using the skills and information from their courses in a real-world setting to address a community-defined need.
For more information on the Bhutanese Cultural Foundation visit: bcfsainfo.org
For more information on the Office of Community-Based Learning visit: scranton.edu/cbl
University Faculty and Students Collaborate with Bhutanese Community to Offer Health Fair
Author Nicole Eustace, Ph.D., the winner of the 2022 Pulitzer Prize in History for her book “Covered with Night,” will speak at The University of Scranton on Wednesday, May 11, as part of National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) supported “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” Project. She will draw from the central themes of her award-winning book when she presents “Murder and Mercy: A Colonial Encounter in the Susquehanna Valley,” at 5 p.m. in the PNC Auditorium of the Loyola Science Center on campus.
At the lecture, Dr. Eustace, a professor of history at New York University, will explore the complex layers of everyday life as colonists encountered and interacted with Native people in Eastern Pennsylvania. A discussion will follow the lecture.
A second lecture on Wednesday, May 18, titled “Removal and the Right to Remain in the United States,” will also explore the Indigenous History of Northeast Pennsylvania. The talk by Samantha Seeley, Ph.D., associate professor of history at the University of Richmond, will be held at 5 p.m. on May 18, in the Henkelman Room at the Albright Memorial Library. She will discuss her book, “Race, Removal, and the Right to Remain: Migration and the Making of the Early United States.” A discussion will follow the lecture.
Both lectures are offered free of charge to members of the greater Scranton community. Registration is required to attend and can be made at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MurderMercy2022 and/or https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RemovalRight2022. Please email community@scranton.edu or call 570-941-4419 with any questions.
The lectures are sponsored by the University’s Slattery Center for the Ignatian Humanities, History Department and Office of Community Relations; and community partners the Black Scranton Project, Lackawanna County Arts and Culture Department, Lackawanna Historical Society, Scranton Public Library, and WVIA.
“Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” seeks to capture the unique narrative of Scranton and relate it to the history of the United States prior to the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The project will incorporate eight themes over a two-year period, including how Scranton has been portrayed in the popular imagination, its industrial era growth, Indigenous history, religious tapestry, diverse immigrant populations – past and present – and the role it played in the Underground Railroad and Black history. Both lectures in May relate to the project’s third theme: “The Indigenous History of Northeast Pennsylvania.”
Indigenous History of NEPA Discussed by Authors
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague’s accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!
THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for May 2022 is: Jacob Harris- Facilities
How long have you worked at Scranton?
I have worked here for 11 years as a custodian.
What do you like most about your job?
What I like the most about my job is the appreciation I feel and the sense of accomplishment from doing my job in getting student, staff and faculty spaces clean on a daily basis. The random thank you's and the friendly hello's are uplifting throughout the day.
What do you do for fun?
For fun I like to hike, kayak and swim. I enjoy taking trips to explore other places and grasp the outdoors, with all it has to offer.
We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Jacob does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Jacob and all our nominees.
Jacob will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University foodservice outlets, as well as a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavillon for the month of March. Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition event in May to receive a certificate of appreciation. We congratulate our winner and all the other nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees.
May 2022 Nominees:
Kelly Cook-CAS Advising
Glenn Pace-IT Client Services
Karl Johns-Technology Service Center
Lucy Grissinger - ORAS
Dave Martin - Athletics
Synthia Guthrie Kretsch - Mailing Services
Dawn Mazurik - Nursing
Karl Johns-Technology Support Services
Thomas Cody-Infrastructure & Security Services
Janet Bernick - Nursing
Donna Cochrane-Kalinoski-Nursing
Delores Rozelle - PCPS Dean’s Office
Caitlyn Hollingshead - Admissions
Jacob Harris - Facilities Maintenance
David Zwanch - IT, Network Team
May Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award Winner
According to The University of Scranton’s First Destination survey for the Class of 2020, the average starting salary of Scranton history graduates 12 months after graduating was $40,600.
History degrees remain in demand due to the various transferable skills emphasized in the program including, writing, verbal and interpersonal communication, research, analysis and critical thinking.
A degree in history provides the foundation for a wide range of career opportunities ranging from law to medicine and more. Examples of successful individuals who have earned degrees in history include Conan O’Brian, Chris Hughes and the 46th President of the United States, Joe Biden.
Scranton’s Bachelor of Arts degree in history prepares students for various post-graduate opportunities including higher education, teaching assistantships, public service work or employment in both the public and private sectors. Scranton’s department of history has produced five Fulbright Scholars in the past decade.
With proximity to various Lackawanna County historical organizations, including the Lackawanna Historical Society and Steamtown National Historic Site, students can get hands-on learning experiences and immerse themselves in the region’s role in American history.
Additional opportunities for independent research are built into the program. Undergraduate student research is frequently submitted for publication or presented at conferences.
Those interested in traveling will find multiple travel abroad courses within the department to places like Italy, Germany, England and the Navajo Nation in Arizona. Students looking to study abroad can do so within the department as well.
Recent Scranton graduates have been admitted to prestigious schools such as Boston College, Cornell University, Georgetown University, a Yale University. Organizations that employ Scranton history graduates include ABC News, Chase Manhattan Bank, the Office of the Attorney General, Paine Weber and the U.S. Military.
Timeless Value of a Degree in History
The Athletics Department will host the third annual Iggy Awards along with its annual Senior Student-Athlete celebration on Wednesday, May 11, at 7 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom in the DeNaples Center on campus.
The Iggy's are hosted and run by Scranton's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).
This event, which is open to student-athletes, coaches and athletics administrators, aims to celebrate the best, funniest and most memorable moments from the past year.
Throughout the evening, the athletics department will also present the five main senior awards – the O'Hara, Carlesimo, Fitzpatrick, Willensky and Ocorr awards. Additionally, each member of the 2022 senior class will be recognized along with their respective teams.
Click here for more information on the department's annual awards and past winners.
A portion of the Iggy's also includes superlative awards that will feature live voting in categories such as "best game face," "best dance move" and "best collision."
Once the superlative winners have been announced, members of SAAC will award male and female recipients for Athlete, Breakthrough Athlete, Play, Rookie, Record-Breaking Performance and Unsung Hero of the year as well as the Royal Way Award.
More information on the Iggy's and Senior Student-Athlete celebration will be posted in the coming weeks at athletics.scranton.edu and on the department's Twitter & Instagram accounts (@RoyalAthletics).
Athletic Department to Host Senior Student-Athlete Celebration and Iggy Awards on May 11
The University of Scranton will celebrate 5.06, its eighth annual Day of Giving, on Friday, May 6, by attempting to reach its goal of 2,022 donors before 5.07 begins.
There are many ways to participate in the 5.06 fun, including wearing purple, posting fond Scranton memories and photos on social media using #TGI506, #GiveToScrantOn506 and #Royals4Others, and making a gift to the campus fund of your choice. Jim Slattery ’86, current chair of the Board of Trustees, will match the first $25,000 donated to The Opening Doors Scholarship, a new scholarship serving graduates of the Cristo Rey Network of High Schools, Arrupe College of Loyola University Chicago, and other similar institutions who have demonstrated financial need by closing the gap of any unmet financial needs after all other sources of financial aid and scholarships have been determined.
“My experience at the University was nothing short of transformational,” Slattery said. “I think those of us that attended here should do what we can to enable Cristo Rey students who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to have the same experience that we did.”
Alumni, parents and friends of the University can also register for this year’s Virtual 5.06K, a virtual exercise challenge that invites participants to exercise in any way prior to 5.07. All Virtual 506K participants will automatically be counted as 5.06 donors, and they can designate their registration fees to the University cause of their choice.
All 5.06 donors will receive a University of Scranton pennant as a token of our appreciation. To make your 5.06 gift, visit this link or text Scranton50622 to 71777. To register for the Virtual 5.06K, visit this link. For more information on 5.06.22, visit scranton.edu/506.
University To Celebrate 5.06 Day Of Giving May 6
Students have been inducted into national honor societies represented at The University of Scranton throughout the 2022 spring semester. Lists of students inducted into some of the University’s honor societies can be seen below.
Students Inducted into National Honor Societies
Thirty-Six University of Scranton students were inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu, the national honor society for students in Jesuit colleges and universities for 2022. The Scranton chapter of Alpha Sigma Nu was founded in 1943 and is the oldest honor society at the University. Juniors, seniors and graduate students, including students in doctoral level degree programs, who have distinguished themselves in scholarship, loyalty and service are eligible for membership.
The following undergraduate and graduate students at Scranton were inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu:
Students Inducted into Jesuit Honor Society
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, announced Carl Hurst will serve as associate vice president for information technology and Chief Information Officer, effective immediately.
“Mr. Hurst, who will also serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet, possess significant knowledge of IT operations and infrastructure, as well as network and data security,” said Father Marina in an announcement to the campus community.
Hurst joined the staff at the University in 2017 as the associate Chief Information Officer. During his time at Scranton, he played a leading role in the development and coordination of comprehensive technical and IT operational plans. He assisted the CIO with facilitating an IT governance strategy, researched emerging technologies and helped to evaluate and assess the University’s current technology and operations to guide future decisions. He also managed IT security, IT security audits and performed vendor security assessments, among other duties.
Prior to joining the University, Hurst was the director of technical infrastructure at TMG Health. Previously, he was the manager of network and desktop infrastructure at Blue Cross NEPA and manager of Windows and desktop server systems at Commonwealth Telephone Enterprises.
Hurst earned his bachelor’s degree in computer science from Wilkes University.
Carl Hurst Named Associate Vice President
The Scranton Club of New Jersey will host a Day At The Races at Monmouth Park Racetrack July 24.
Alumni, parents and friends of the University are invited to enjoy a day at the track in the Reserved Picnic Area. In addition to betting on the horses, this family-friendly event will include a picnic barbecue, playground, live music and more.
Registration will open in June. Contact alumni@scranton.edu for more information.
Scranton Club of New Jersey to Host Day at the Races July 24
The Scranton Club of Lehigh Valley will meet up and watch the Iron Pigs take on the Norfolk Tides June 24 at Coca-Cola Park.
Alumni, parents and friends of the University are invited to attend the game, which will begin at 7:05 p.m. Tickets will be seated in Section 118. Visit this link to register for $11, which includes $2 in ballpark credit. For more information, contact alumni@scranton.edu.
Scranton Club of Lehigh Valley to Meet at Iron Pigs Game June 24
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
John G. Harris ’73, Harrisburg, received the Central Pennsylvania Music Awards (CPMA) Hall of Fame’s Lifetime Achievement Award (The Whitey Noll Award) at this year’s CPMAs and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on March 24. In a career that spans more than four decades, Harris has worn almost every hat in the regional music industry scene except musician. Harris started his career by scouting and booking bands as a nightclub manager and then became fully engaged in the business as a manager/promoter/talent buyer at the Metron. He was also an associate producer at Makoul Productions (City Island Concerts) and manager of several bands. He re-defined the role of middle-agent for decades at venues throughout Central Pennsylvania and worked with the city of Harrisburg on events such as Reservoir Park, July 4, Kipona, ArtsFest, and concerts on Market Square. While manager of the Best Western Conference Center & Courtyard Night Club (New Cumberland), he started the annual Millennium Music Conference (MMC) & Showcase. MMC went on for 25 years and at its height would sell out hotels and host over 100 music industry professionals and 300 acts and artists showcasing at 30 live music venues in and around Harrisburg. In 2008, Harris started the Singer-Songwriter of Cape May Conference (New Jersey) which ran for 12 years until the pandemic. Harris is currently the Talent Buyer at XL LIVE and Production Manager for Harrisburg University Presents.
Althea Penn, Ed.D. G’13, Snellville, Georgia, is the new director of Early Education at The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). Dr. Penn brings more than 30 years of experience in organization leadership as well as primary and secondary education to ACSI, most recently serving as executive director of The Shepherd’s Academy for Teaching Excellence in Snellville, Georgia. She has served thousands of educators, administrators and schools as an educational consultant and professional development specialist. Penn will lead the ACSI EE team in developing biblically-based resources and providing professional development to support early educators. She collaborates with other departments to carry out initiatives in alignment with the organization’s strategic plan, including the integration of current research for ECE program practices. As a principal, Dr. Penn was awarded Ford's Freedom Unsung Teacher Hero of COVID-19 Award for courageously launching an EE-12th school during the pandemic.
Michael D. Azzato ’17, Harrisburg, was hired as a tax staff accountant at Brown Schultz Sheridan & Fritz, Camp Hill.
MARRIAGES
Alicia Yanac, D.O. ’10 to Tom Robinson
BIRTHS
A daughter, Isabella Antonia, to Nicholas’13, G’15 and Christina Walsh Minissale’15, Cherry Hill, New Jersey
FRIENDS' DEATHS
Claire Lukaschek, mother of Mary Claire Lukaschek Aitken ’82 and mother-in-law of Linda Green Lukaschek ’83
Mary Pearn, mother of James Pearn ’78 and Francis Pearn ’83; grandmother of Brian Pearn ’16
Alumni Class Notes, May 2022
The University of Scranton will hold the Carlesimo Golf Tournament & Award Dinner June 27 at Canoe Brook Country Club in Summit, New Jersey. The University will honor Tony Rice, Notre Dame legend and quarterback for the 1988 National Championship Team, with the Peter A. Carlesimo Award. To register, visit this link.
The University is proud to partner once again with the Quandel Construction Group as Title Sponsor for this year's event. Registration and lunch will begin at 10 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at noon; a reception will begin at 5 p.m., and the Award Dinner will immediately follow.
The Golf Tournament and Award Dinner serves as a fundraising event to support and enhance the student-athlete experience at The University of Scranton. For more information about this event, please visit scranton.edu/carlesimoaward or contact Eric Eckenrode at eric.eckenrode@scranton.edu.
University to Hold Carlesimo Golf Tournament And Award Dinner June 27
Registration has opened for Reunion 2022, which will take place June 11-12.
To register, visit this link. Visit scranton.edu/reunion for more information.
Register Today for Reunion 2022
The Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) will hold a luncheon and information session discussing volunteer opportunities for people aged 50 and above Tuesday, May 24, at noon in the McDonnell Room on the DeNaples Center's fourth floor.
The event will give attendees the chance to learn firsthand about the IVC NEPA Chapter from local volunteers and Teddy Michel, region director of IVC NEPA. To register, visit this link.
The IVC provides men and women, most aged 50 or above, with opportunities to share their life skills and wisdom in service to people who are underserved. IVC provides a dynamic equilibrium of action and reflection for individuals desiring to make a difference in the lives of those needing service, those doing service, and those with whom they serve.
Reminder: IVC to Hold Luncheon and Info Session May 24
Margaret Mary Fitzpatrick S.C., Congregational Leader for the Sisters of Charity, Halifax, Canada; and Lawrence R. Lynch, former chair of The University of Scranton Board of Trustees and recently retired assurance partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP; will receive honorary degrees from The University of Scranton at its undergraduate commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 21.
Rev. Herbert B. Keller, S.J., vice president for Mission and Ministry at The University of Scranton, will serve as the principal speaker. Father Keller received an honorary doctoral degree from the University in 2006.
Sister Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., was elected the Congregational Leader of the Sisters of Charity Halifax in October of 2020, serving her Sisters and advancing the charism of charity throughout the world. She also serves as a board member of DePaul University and St. John’s University.
A nationally recognized leader in higher education, Sister Fitzpatrick served as president and CEO of St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York, for 25 years before retiring from that position in June of 2020. During her tenure, she placed sustainability at the forefront of the college’s efforts, incorporating sustainability into the curriculum and daily operations of the college and creating the Global Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility as a hub of these efforts. She also led the way for the college to join the Catholic Climate Covenant, a pledge to educate students, employees and community members on climate change.
From 1981 to 1995, Sister Fitzpatrick served at St. John’s University, holding a number of positions there, including senior vice president and vice president and assistant to the president. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Boston State College and a master’s degree from Fordham University, a master’s degree in education and her doctorate from Columbia University.
Until his recent retirement, Lynch was assurance partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, serving in the financial services sector. He previously served as a trustee of Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart, Friends of Saint Joseph’s Passionist Church of Paris, International Insurance Foundation, chairman of the board of trustees for the Marymount International School in Paris, as a board member of the French American Chamber of Commerce, Philadelphia chapter, and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Catholic Social Services.
Lynch has supported many University initiatives, including fundraisers and recruitment for students. Lynch serve three consecutive terms on the University’s Board of Trustees (2009-2018) and served as its chair from 2014-2018. He also served as president of the Scranton Club of Philadelphia; and as a member of the Alumni Society’s Board of Governor, the Kania School of Management’s Accounting Department Professional Alumni Council and the President’s Business Council. With his wife, Keli, they established the Joseph F. Lynch Memorial Scholarship in honor of Lynch’s father, Joseph, to provide need-based aid for students.
A certified public accountant, Lynch earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Scranton in 1981.
The University’s undergraduate commencement ceremony will begin at noon on May 21 at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza in Wilkes-Barre.
Two Will Receive Honorary Degrees from University
MAY 9 UPDATE: The debate originally planned for 7 p.m. for the Republican Primary candidates for the 118th PA House District has been cancelled. The debate for the 113th District Democratic Primary candidates is still set for this evening. Original release follows.
The University of Scranton’s Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service (CEEPS), in collaboration with the League of Women Voters of Lackawanna County, will host two debates for PA House Primary candidates on Monday, May 9.
Republican Primary candidates for the 118th PA House District, John Lombardo and James May, will participate in a debate beginning at 7 p.m. in the Pearn Auditorium of Brennan Hall on Madison Avenue. Immediately following, Democratic Primary candidates for the 113th PA House District, Kyle Donahue and Patrick Flynn, will participate in a debate, which is set to begin at 8 p.m. in the Pearn Auditorium of Brennan Hall.
The debates are offered free of charge.
For more information, email ceeps@scranton.edu.
PA House Primary Candidate Debates Set for May 9
This May a pair of Humanities Lectures and Discussions focusing on the Indigenous history of NEPA will be offered as a part of the "Scranton's Story, Our Nation's Story" project. On Wednesday, May 11 at 5 p.m., there will be a humanities lecture and discussion "Murder and Mercy: A Colonial Encounter in the Susquehanna Valley," featuring scholar Nicole Eustace and on Wednesday, May 18 at 5 p.m., there will be a humanities lecture and discussion, "Removal and the Right to Remain in the United States," featuring scholar Samantha Seeley. Both events are a continuation of the project’s third theme, the Indigenous History of NEPA, and will focus on colonization and the importance of an inclusive telling of this period of our nation’s story.
Adam Pratt, a professor of history at Scranton who helped organize these lectures said, “It’s really important to be sharing Native American history as part of the Scranton’s Story project. Any truthful reckoning with the area’s past must include the people who lived here prior to the city’s formation, and whose absence we should consider when thinking about the city today. We’re also fortunate to have two great scholars coming to Scranton to share with us their vitally important research about conflict between American settlers and Indigenous inhabitants in colonial Pennsylvania and the early United States.”
Nicole Eustace, Ph.D., a professor of history at NYU, is a prolific writer. Her talk, “Murder and Mercy”: A Colonial Encounter in the Susquehanna Valley” will highlight the central themes of her latest book, Covered with Night, which explores competing interpretations of justice and morality on the Pennsylvania frontier. She demonstrates the complex layers and textures of everyday life as colonists encountered Native peoples in eastern Pennsylvania. Covered with Night was a finalist for the 2021 National Book Award. This event will take place on Wednesday, May 11 at 5 p.m. in the PNC Auditorium, Loyola Science Center 133 at The University of Scranton. Registration required: surveymonkey.com/r/MurderMercy2022
Samantha Seeley, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of history at the University of Richmond. Her book, Race, Removal, and the Right to Remain: Migration and the Making of the Early United States, highlights early efforts at U.S. nation-building and the use of migration to construct a white republic. Situating the struggles of Native and Black Americans into the larger story of the early U.S, Seeley argues for a more inclusive way to tell the story of forced removal and its implications on early U.S. statehood.
Her talk, “Removal and the Right to Remain in the United States,” will take place on Wednesday, May 18, 2022, at 5 p.m., in the Henkelman Room at Albright Memorial Library, Scranton, PA. Registration is required at: surveymonkey.com/r/RemovalRight2022
These events are a continuation of the "Scranton's Story, Our Nation's Story" project's third theme, Indigenous History of Northeastern Pennsylvania, which began earlier this spring with a series of events featuring Indigenous artists and members of the Shinnecock Nation, Jeremy Dennis. Additional events are planned for this theme in November of 2022. Events in this theme are a collaboration of The University of Scranton, Black Scranton Project, Lackawanna County Arts & Culture Department, Lackawanna Historical Society, Scranton Public Library, and WVIA with the support of additional project partner organizations.
For more information on all programs and upcoming events, please visit scranton.edu/scrantonstory
Questions? Email community@scranton.edu or call 570-941-4419.
These events have been made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in these events do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
May Humanities Lectures and Discussions to Focus on Indigenous History of NEPA
Allergy season is upon us. If you are covered under the University's health plan, your SwiftMD telemedicine service is your first and free defense against stubborn allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy throat, nasal congestion, and itchy/watery eyes. Consults with SwiftMD doctors are available anytime, anywhere, at no cost to you – no co-pays or consult fees!
Just call 833-794-3863 or log in at SwiftMD.com.
SwiftMD doctors can treat many common, minor illnesses such as:
- Fever and flu
- Rashes
- Bronchitis
- Sinus infections
- Pink eye
- Ear infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Poison ivy
- Insect bites and stings
- Nasal or respiratory congestion
- Your individual medical concerns
SwiftMD doctors are U.S.-trained and board-certified physicians with at least 10 years’ experience practicing medicine. They can diagnose and care for many common, episodic illnesses, and send a prescription to your preferred local pharmacy if you need one.
The University of Scranton is committed to providing quality healthcare to members and their families.
For more information about being a SwiftMD member, visit SwiftMD.com .
Staff Benefits: Free and Immediate Allergy Relief
On Wednesday, April 27, the Pre-Law Society held a community service event to benefit two local organizations. Members of the society were encouraged to bring donations for the Alice V. Leahy Food Pantry at The University of Scranton and new socks for the NEPA Youth Shelter. Together, the society collected more than 130 donations for the pantry and 20 pairs of new socks for the shelter. Members also wrote more than 140 cards to be distributed to hospitalized children across the United States.
"It is amazing to see the Pre-Law Society members help their community after the pandemic halted most activities," said Pre-Law Society president Brea Rutledge. "This group of students stepped up to meet the challenge this year, and I couldn’t be prouder of them."
During the 2021-2022 school year, the society held five community service events. Together they donated over 260 items to local organizations in Scranton and wrote over 280 cards for veterans and hospitalized children.
Pre-Law Society Hosts Spring Community Service Event
April
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Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a recital by the father-son duo of organist John A. Romeri and flautist John Romeri on Saturday, May 7.
The recital will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue.
Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
A church musician for nearly 50 years, John A. Romeri has served in Catholic churches and cathedrals across the country. Most recently, he served as the first director of music for the newest American cathedral, Christ Cathedral in Orange County, California. While there, he established the Cathedral choirs, Diocesan Choir and Diocesan Children’s Choir. In addition, he served as the host of “Music from the Tower,” a weekly radio program focused on sacred and classical music.
“We are very excited to welcome this dynamic father-son duo, and to introduce them for the first time to our concert hall and its mighty Austin,” said Cheryl Y. Boga, director of Performance Music at The University of Scranton.
John A. Romeri’s choirs have toured the United States, Europe and Canada, and he has served in leadership positions with the American Guild of Organists, the National Association of Pastoral Musicians and Pueri Cantores. Through the years, he has received a number of awards, including the Westminster Choir College Alumni Merit Award and the Paul Creston Award from St. Malachy, the Actor’s Chapel in New York City.
Meanwhile, his son, John Romeri, is the co-founder and artistic director of the Broadway Chamber Players, a group of Broadway pit musicians who play chamber music concerts in New York’s Theater District. In addition, he maintains an active teaching and performance schedule throughout the Northeast, often performing with the Stamford, Delaware, Harrisburg and Lancaster symphonies, the Orchestra of St. Luke’s and Philadelphia Virtuosi and Black Pearl Chamber orchestras, as well as at St. Paul's Chapel of Trinity Wall Street and Central Park’s Shakespeare in the Park.
For many years, the younger Romeri has been a sought-after musician for numerous Broadway shows, among them “Carousel,” “Wicked,” “Miss Saigon,” “Sunset Boulevard,” “My Fair Lady,” “The King and I,” “She Loves Me,” “An American in Paris,” “On the Town,” “Les Misérables” and “Beauty and the Beast.” He has also performed music for such television shows as “Mildred Pierce,” “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,” “The Sound of Music Live!” and “Peter Pan Live!”
The Houlihan-McLean Center’s Austin Opus 301 symphonic organ was built in 1910 by the Austin Organ Company of Hartford, Connecticut, for Scranton’s Immanuel Baptist Church. Restored and re-dedicated by the University in 2005, the organ is one of the few rare surviving original examples of early 20th-century organ building, possessing a total of 3,178 pipes, 45 ranks and four manuals. The instrument is maintained by artist/technicians from Emery Brothers/Dieffenbach organs.
For the performance, audience members are required to wear a higher-grade mask (N95, KN95, KF94 or double masking) at all times. Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for the most current information on additional required audience COVID-19 mitigation measures (e.g., masking, vaccination, distancing, etc.).
For further information on the recital, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more info on John A. Romeri, visit johnromeri.com. For more on John Romeri, visit www.broadwaychamberplayers.org/about.
Romeri Duo to Present Organ-Flute Recital May 7
The University of Scranton's annual End of the Year Drive, hosted by The Center for Service & Social Justice, collects items that students would normally discard at the end of the academic year.
A team of more than 20 underclassmen volunteers to stay on campus after final exams and undertakes the effort to collect, sort and distribute the donations. Donations are given to area agencies in need such as Friends of the Poor, Community Invention Center, St. Francis of Assisi Clothing House and food pantry, as well as the University of Scranton Royal Restore food pantry at Arrupe House.
We will be accepting donations from May 10 through graduation.
Watch for donation boxes in your residence hall. Off campus students—ask us for boxes for your apartments!
Questions? Contact the CSSJ office at ellen.judge@scranton.edu.
Donations Welcome!
After serving almost a decade as CNN’s Moscow Bureau Chief, Schemel Forum guest speaker Jill Dougherty was living and working in Moscow in February 2022 when tensions between Russia and Ukraine were rising, witnessing firsthand the tactics used by various media organizations to promote a single narrative.
After discussing the role American media played in the Russia-Ukraine crisis, Dougherty began to explain how Russian media presented the same situation. By placing Russian weapons and troops in the geographically significant separatist territories of the People’s Republics of Donetsk and Luhansk, Putin effectively had the country of Ukraine surrounded. According to Dougherty, the narrative Russian media presented was that Putin’s intentions for doing this were those of self-defense against a supposed genocide of these people. Dougherty recognized that “what they were doing is what the old Soviet Union used to do with kind of weird little places they would recognize, and then say we have to protect them and then they would put their forces in to ‘protect’ them.’” Dougherty said, “at that moment it was so obvious that they had been setting this up for weeks.”
Other media tactics employed by some Russian media companies that Dougherty explored in her lecture include: presenting prerecorded statements as live ones; selectively recording attacks in certain areas while ignoring others; and including persuasive rhetoric like referring to people as “traitors.”
Ultimately, Russian media sanctions against independent media outlets forced many journalists, including Dougherty, out of the country in fear of potential retaliation for statements made on air. However, Dougherty noted that this is not the only recent change that will impact the country and the world in the years to come.
“The implications for Ukraine are dire, but the implications for Russia, militarily, and their society in many ways are dire too. There’s no other word because both countries will be transformed by what is going on,” said Dougherty.
Dougherty presented “Russia and the Post-Truth Society” at a Spring Schemel Forum World Affairs Seminar held on The University of Scranton’s campus in April.
Former CNN Moscow Bureau Chief on Russian Media
The University of Scranton men's and women's lacrosse teams both extended their winning streaks with a pair of Landmark Conference victories last week, while the softball team has now won six straight.
For more on those teams and the rest of the week in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Men's and Women's Lacrosse Teams, Softball Extend Winning Streaks
Rev. Herbert B. Keller, S.J., vice president for Mission and Ministry at The University of Scranton, will serve as the principal speaker at the University’s undergraduate commencement ceremony on May 21. The ceremony will begin at noon at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza in Wilkes-Barre.
“Father Keller has dedicated his life to strengthening, furthering and bettering Catholic and Jesuit education. His congenial warmth and keen sense of humor make him beloved by all who meet him. He is an exceptional teacher, leader and speaker, and I am sure our students and guests will enjoy his message at commencement,” said Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton.
Father Keller, who serves as the rector of the Scranton Jesuit Community, will step down as vice president for Mission and Ministry at the University at the end of the 2021-22 academic year. Previously, he served as interim president at Scranton for the 2017-2018 academic year and also as special assistant to the president. He received an honorary doctoral degree from the University in 2006.
At the conclusion of the academic year, Fr. Keller will return Scranton Preparatory School as a teacher and pastoral minister. Father Keller served as president of Scranton Prep for 18 years and is the longest-serving president in the Jesuit school’s history.
Father Keller entered the Jesuit novitiate in Wernersville in 1969. In 1975, he received a bachelor’s degree in English and philosophy from Fordham University. He earned a master’s degree with distinction from Weston School of Theology in Boston and a professional diploma in secondary school administration from Fordham University’s Graduate School of Education.
He was ordained a priest in 1981 and has served in Jesuit secondary education for 35 years. Father Keller was named principal of Scranton Prep in 1983 and served in that capacity for eight years. From 1991 to 1997, he was named principal of his alma mater, Saint Joseph’s Prep in Philadelphia, and also served as rector of the Jesuit Community.
In 2016, Father Keller served as a delegate from the Maryland Province for the Society of Jesus' General Congregation 36. In addition to servicing 17 years on The University of Scranton’s board across several terms, he is a past trustee of Fairfield University and Saint Joseph’s University, as well as Saint Joseph’s Preparatory School and Gonzaga College High School.
Read the announcement of the commencement speaker in The Aquinas.
Speaker Announced for 2022 Commencement
The University of Scranton announced plans to open its campus again to the general public at the start of the summer semester on May 24. The University is currently open to members of the University community and invited guests, which includes family members and friends attending Scranton’s various graduation ceremonies and other events on campus. Currently, higher-grade masks are optional for individuals indoors, regardless of vaccine status.
The University also announced COVID vaccine requirements for students and employees for the fall semester. The University will require all students attending in-person classes or accessing campus for other reasons in the fall 2022 semester to provide proof of being fully vaccinated by August 1. All employees are required to provide an attestation that they are fully vaccinated. Students and employees can apply for medical or religious exemptions to the vaccine requirements.
Regarding boosters, the University strongly recommends, but does not require, that students and employees stay “up to date” with COVID-19 vaccinations.
The University has based its health and safety plan on recommendations by the CDC and other health organizations. The University continues to monitor the situation and will update its plan as needed.
The full update for the summer and fall is available on the University’s Royals Back Together webpage
University to Open Campus to General Public Again
The results are in for the Student Government election that took place on April 12, 2022. The student body has elected Clara Downey, junior political science and policy student, and Thomas Elias, sophomore philosophy and theology student, as the newest president and vice-president for the 2022-2023 academic year.
Downey will serve as the second female student body president at the University, and the executive team will assume their roles in an official capacity on May 1.
“Serving the student body has been some of the most gratifying work of my college career. I would describe my work ethic as being unique, thriving off of challenges and healthy collaboration with all University constituencies," said Downey. "Thomas and I are looking forward to addressing direct student concerns in innovative and deliberate ways, and anticipate bringing an aspect of boldness and intention to our advocacy approach.”
Newly Elected Student Body President and Vice-President
More than 100 area students participated in The University of Scranton’s annual Hayes Family Science Competition for High School Physics and Engineering Students. The academic competition tested the high school students’ knowledge of physics and engineering through a series of quizzes and hands-on challenges. Students competed individually and in teams.
Noah Beckish from North Pocono High School came in first place in the individual competition, based on a quiz given to all participants and placement in a Jeopardy game of those with highest quiz scores. Matthew Pelleschi, from Wyoming Area High School, came in second place. Anderson Zou from West Scranton High School came in third place.
In the team competition, Berwick High School team one placed first. Members of that team were: John Ebert, Jaida Geiser, Sophia Guerriero, Gabe Hook, Jeff Lin, Brendan Torowski, and Sadie Zehner. Matt Shrader was their coach. Wallenpaupack Area High School came in second. Members of the Wallenpaupack team were: Adam Basile, Andrew Bromberger, Xin Chen, Alec Crouthamel, Lucas Macdonough, Lucas Ryan, Jack Smith and Matt Tavalsky. Ryan Neenan was their coach. Wyoming Area team one placed third. Members of the third-place finishing team were: Sean Burke, Richard Kashuba, Zachary Kostik, Hunter Lawall, Hailey Patts and Matthew Pelleschi (who came in second place in the individual competition). coach David Pizano was their coach.
For each game, prizes were also awarded. In the game titled “Chopped,” North Pocono team four won the Ingenuity Award. In the game titled “The Chase,” Scranton High won the Ingenuity Award. Forest City Regional’s team received the Ingenuity Award for the game titled “The Price is Right.” And West Scranton’s team took home the Ingenuity Award for the “American Ninja Warrior Media Event.”
The competition was organized by the University’s Department of Physics and Electrical Engineering to encourage more students to pursue careers in physics and engineering.
$content.getChild('content').textValueCompetition Tests Students’ Knowledge of Physics
The World Languages and Cultures Department inducted 29 new members into the Theta Iota chapter of Alpha Mu Gamma, the Foreign Language National Honor Society. This society recognizes exceptional achievement in foreign languages, and this year inducted members who demonstrated excellence in Spanish, French, Italian, Chinese and Arabic.
A ceremony and luncheon to induct new members was hosted on Thursday, April 21 by chapter advisor, Marzia Caporale, Ph.D., chapter president, Crysta O’Donnell, and chapter officer, Johanna Rene. Students received certificates and society pins upon their induction to Alpha Mu Gamma, and seniors will also receive gold honor cords.
Below is a list of students who were inducted into Alpha Mu Gamma:
Sophia Alderman – Spanish
Destiny Carpitella – Chinese
Eva Kurilla – French
Anne Murphy – Spanish
Veronica Romanek – Spanish
Katia Ramirez – Spanish
Audrey Saliba – French
Steve Holguin – Spanish
Sultana Rahman – Arabic
Emily Allen – Spanish
Carolina Murphy – Spanish
McCae Dougher – Spanish
Chelsea Hernandez – Spanish
Jane Fiore – Arabic
Katherine Carter – Italian
Emma Coar – Arabic
Noslairi Rodriguez Mesa – Spanish
Claudia O’Reilly – Spanish
Cecelia McMullen – Spanish
Adam Mehall – Spanish
Matthew Kronenberg – Spanish
Anthony Ciampoli – Spanish
Albert Naim – Arabic
Kathleen Redmond - Spanish
Jenna Larrabee – Spanish
Daniella Savaglio-Rodriguez – Spanish
Amanda Musmanno – Spanish
Gabriela Gonzalez – Spanish
Noemi Carreto – Spanish
For more information about Alpha Mu Gamma, visit this website or contact Dr. Marzia Caporale at marzia.caporale@scranton.edu.
Foreign Language Honors Society Inducts New Members
On Monday, April 11, the World Languages Department and Cultures held its final Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) -led event on the Oktoberfest at Leahy 235 Kane Forum. German FLTA Fabian Postert hosted this event and presented about the World’s Largest Folk Festival in Germany, the Oktoberfest. This festival is a celebration of German culture that is held annually from mid-September to early October where more than six million people from around the world attend. Students, faculty and staff that attended learned about the clothing, music, food, attractions and customs that make the Oktoberfest so popular. Attendees also enjoyed traditional foods that are offered at Oktoberfest such as root beer and warm pretzels.
FLTA Fabian Postert expressed that he was happy to present the Oktoberfest as an important part of German culture and also share his personal experiences, thoughts and recommendations. Postert wanted to give students a general overview of what to expect from the Oktoberfest. He explained how he wanted his presentation to serve as a travel guide and provide important information on the many things to do and things to avoid at the Oktoberfest. Postert said, “I hope that the event helped students become interested in German or specifically Bavarian culture and encourage them to visit the Oktoberfest and other places in Germany in the future.”
Want to learn more about Germany or the other countries, cultures, and languages represented in the World Languages and Cultures?
Come to the World Languages and Cultures TA Talk (meal provided & registration required) on Japan, Germany, and France on Thursday, April 28, 4:30-6:00 p.m. in the Rose Room (Brennan 509). Registration required.
If you have any questions about the World Languages and Cultures Department’s German program or are interested in learning about other cultural events offered by the department, be sure to check out the department’s Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter or email Hannah Jackson at hannah.jackson@scranton.edu.
Fulbright TA Talk Features Oktoberfest
This Saturday, April 30 from 12-4 p.m., United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA (UNC) and Lackawanna County Department of Arts & Culture will present the 1st Pine Brook Arts Festival in the neighborhood, taking place at John Adams Elementary School playground on Saturday, April 30 from 12-4 p.m. The festival will feature local artists and organizations providing family-friendly art projects along with art and cultural experience.
This event is part of UNC’s Pine Brook Neighborhood Revitalization Plan. Art activities include canvas painting projects, jewelry and button making, balloon animal sculptures, music, and dance performances. Organizations are providing photo booths, jumbo table games, a sensory tent, and more. Food vendors include Antonio’s Pizza, El Buen Amigo, Northern Light Espresso Bar, and more. The University of Scranton is sponsoring a kid’s painting project and free ice cream for children (while supplies last). Other participating businesses and community partners include Scranton Preparatory School, Scranton Fringe, Center for Independent Living, Lettieri Auction, Black Scranton Project, Electric City Axe Throwing, On and On, Johnson College and many more!
Pine Brook Project Manager, Holly Yorkonis says, “This event was a joy to put together for the neighborhood, the support from local artists and businesses has been astonishing! Being able to bring diverse art to the neighborhood, giving local residents access to art and education will make a collective positive impact on the community as a whole!”
In addition to serving as an event sponsor, 25 University of Scranton students from Dr. Chandra Nealon’s OT 231 Neuroanatomy of Function course developed art projects to share with the children and community members of Pine Brook. Using concepts learned in their course, future OT practitioners developed meaningful activities including homemade stress balls (connecting tactile stimulation to reticular formation for calming), sensory bags (tactile & visual stimulation including object identification), homemade memory matching game (connecting construction motor skills with the visual & limbic systems), and homemade beaded bracelets including "finding" beads in rice (connecting tactile stimulation with stereognosis while incorporating fractionated movement of hands/fingers).
The University will also host a pop-up oral history collection booth as a part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project. Started in the fall of 2021, this project is an effort led by The University of Scranton with multiple community-partners and supported by a generous grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to explore Scranton’s history, culture, and role in the nation at large. This project aims to tell the story of our nation through the lens of Scranton, PA by amplifying the voices, experiences, and ideas of the people of Scranton, both those that live here today and those that have important connections to our city. Through the collection of Scranton stories at various community events, the project team hopes to capture the myriad stories of love, hope, challenges, traditions, frustrations, and community that interconnect to form the fabric of the Scranton.
Admission for the Pine Brook Arts Festival is free and open to the public with free parking available in the Junior Lot at Scranton Preparatory School on Ash Street.
Members of the University and greater Scranton area communities are invited for a fun-filled day of art, theater, and education at John Adams School playground at 927 Capouse Ave, Scranton PA 18509.
Interested volunteers can contact Holly at hyorkonis@uncnepa.org.
For more information, please contact Holly Yorkonis by email at hyorkonis@uncnepa.org or call (272) 228-1366
Inaugural Pine Brook Arts Festival Saturday, April 30
What are your career goals?
No matter what specific area of practice I go into, I hope to help as many people as I possibly can throughout my career. Another goal is to eventually go back to school and get my OTD and become a doctor of occupational therapy but I plan to do that as I am working in the field. Finally, I am interested in hand therapy so if I work in a hand rehabilitation clinic, one of my goals would be to become a certified hand therapist in addition to being an occupational therapist.
What’s the coolest thing you've done at Scranton?
When I was a sophomore I joined the then newly-created club lacrosse team. This year I was selected to be a captain of the team, which I greatly appreciated. Through the team, I have made multiple close friends and tons of memories on and off the field.
What will you miss most about Scranton?
I'll miss being able to live with my friends and spending my free time hanging out with them. I will also miss the convenience of seeing my friends I don’t live with, as they are just a short walk through the Hill Section. I will miss the events that happen downtown every year like Parade Day and La Festa Italiana.
Senior Spotlight: Chris Nevins
A record number of middle and high school students participated in The University of Scranton’s Earth Day Essay Contest, which was one of several Earth Day events hosted in April.
Inspired by Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical titled “On Care for Our Common Home,” The University of Scranton’s Sustainability Office selected the theme “We Are All Connected” for their 2022 Spring Earth Day sustainability initiative.
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, referenced a Universal Apostolic Preference of the Society of Jesus in his Earth Day message to the campus community.
“As you know, the fourth Universal Apostolic Preference (UAP) of the Society of Jesus, prescribed to all Jesuit institutions around the world by Superior General Fr. Arturo Sosa in 2019, addresses the problem of ecological degradation and destruction. As Fr. Sosa has said, ‘creation today is crying out as never before, labouring to be set free (Romans 8). Today’s environmental crisis is impacting in a particular way on the poor and vulnerable. Action is needed urgently by Christians and by all people of good will. Whole nations and peoples need an ecological conversion if we are to be honest custodians of this wonderful planet,’” wrote Father Marina in the message sent April 1.
More than 350 students in grades 5-12 participates in the University’s Earth Day Essay Contest. Most participants were from NEPA, but students in New York and Texas also submitted essays. The winners of the essay contest were announced at the Evening of Environmental event that took place in the Atrium of the Loyola Science Center on April 20. The event featured interactive science experiments run by University students and included a display of the essays submitted.
On April 21, the University hosted a lecture by renowned American climatologist and geophysicist Michael Mann, Ph.D., author of “The New Climate War: The Fight to Take Back Our Planet.” Dr. Mann is the author of five books on climate change, as well as more than 200 peer-reviewed and edited publications, numerous op-eds and commentaries. is the Distinguished Professor of Atmospheric Science at Pennsylvania State University, with joint appointments in the Department of Geosciences and the Earth and Environmental Systems Institute. He is also director of the Penn State Earth System Science Center.
Other Earth Day events included an Environmental Art Show, an Earth Day Fair, an Environmentally-Friendly Tie-Dye event, and a screening of “The Human Element,” a film in which photographer James Balog uses his camera to document and uncover how environmental change affects the lives of Americans each day.
The final Earth Day event for the month of April will be an art show address on April 25 by Laura Kern, an artist from rural Pennsylvania who uses her sculptures to emphasize the connection between humans and the environment, as well as to highlight prominent environmental and societal issues. Kern will present her address in the lobby of the Loyola Science Center.
The events were sponsored by the University’s Sustainability Office with the support of the Jesuit Center, the Kania School of Management, the Multicultural Center, the environmental studies concentration and major, the Weinberg Memorial Library and the Society for Sustainability and Conservation student organization.
$content.getChild('content').textValueRecord Number Participate in Earth Day Essay Contest
The once-a-year Hindu Festival of Color, HOLI, will return to campus this Saturday, April 23, outdoors on the Dionne Green from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., after two-year of dormancy due to Covid.
At this event, authentic Indian food will be served. There will also be a presentation, Indian dance, music and throwing color-powder activity. Please bring friends, family and stop by.
The event is presented by the Asia Club, co-sponsored by Multicultural Center, Asian Studies, and the Office of Equity and Diversity.
HOLI: Hindu Festival of Color
Four members of the University's men's and women's track and field teams put together record-breaking performances at the Bison Outdoor Classic, while three members of the men's golf team earned All-Landmark Conference honors.
For more on those performances and the rest of the week that was in Scranton Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Record-Breaking Performances Highlight Successful Week for Athletics
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the importance of working together to strengthen families to prevent child abuse and neglect, a critical issue affecting children and families across the globe and from all walks of life. In the United States alone, a report of child abuse is made once every 10 seconds. To help raise awareness by sharing critical child abuse and neglect prevention and reporting information, two sections of Dr. Ovidiu Cocieru’s MGT 352: Management, Marketing & Entrepreneurship courses partnered with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeastern Pennsylvania (CAC NEPA) on a community-based learning (CBL) project to organize and implement a QR code prevention and awareness campaign.
During the month of April, over 40 businesses in the greater Scranton area are participating in this QR code prevention and awareness campaign. For this CBL project, the CAC NEPA created stickers with a QR Code that, when scanned, links to the CAC NEPA prevention informational pamphlet that contains general information about the CAC NEPA and its services, as well as information on child abuse prevention, signs and symptoms of abuse, and how to report abuse. University of Scranton students from Dr. Cocieru's MGT 352 courses worked with the CAC and the Office of Community-Based Learning to recruit businesses that would place the CAC stickers on their products.
“April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and a time to celebrate the critical role that communities play in protecting children. This month and throughout the year, the Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA (CAC NEPA) encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making Lackawanna County a better place for children and families. Educating communities on child abuse prevention and building awareness of the extent of the problem is a big part of what we hope to accomplish through the Community Based Learning project,” said Marsha Pigga, executive director, CAC NEPA.
Education is the first step in preventing child abuse and neglect. The greater Scranton business partners were a key part of getting this important information into the hands of their patrons via the QR code stickers on their products. All involved in this project are grateful for the outpouring of support from the local business community.
“I was a bit nervous about approaching businesses, but they were more receptive to our community-based [learning] project than I anticipated. I learned that Scranton has a strong community on and off-campus that are willing to help students make a difference. … I appreciate being able to take a class that allows me to interact with the off-campus community,” said Kayla Alvero ‘22 strategic communications major.
In addition to addressing this important community issue, students in Dr. Cocieru’s courses are also finding a new way to bring their coursework to life outside of the classroom.
From a learning perspective, our collaboration with the Children’s Advocacy Center is invaluable because it gives students a context in which they can experience working with others towards a common, meaningful goal. They can use the project to reflect on the way motivation, leadership, interpersonal relationships and communication evolve over time in a real-world setting. I was extremely impressed with the students’ commitment to the community and the openness with which businesses in Scranton have responded,” said Dr. Cocieru.
As a part of the CBL partnership and project, students are able to apply key themes and course concepts from Dr. Cocieru’s courses through working on this project, which in turn helps students reflect on both their own learning and also to gain experience.
“Within the Management 352 class, we have spent most of our class time learning how to adapt and become effective members of a company," said Justin Galli ’22 accounting major. "The topics we have covered include being an effective leader, motivating yourself and a group, how to be an effective member of a group and team, how to communicate effectively (in a work environment), and how to manage conflicts that arise between colleagues and yourself. All these skills are important to have, but without applying them you are not able to see what truly is effective and what is not. The CBL project was a collaborative task that allowed us to implement what we learned and use it in a positive way to help the community of Scranton. All these components matter because in the accounting/business field we will need to communicate with more than just our colleagues and we will need to be able to problem-solve when our original plan is not as attainable as we thought."
Students appreciate the opportunity to both address a community-defined need and also to have the opportunity to take what they learn in the classroom out to the real world.
“Almost every lesson, that we have covered thus far, can offer insight as to how we should approach the assignment or can strengthen our understanding of how course material is prevalent in the real world...This course and experience can shape the way students network with companies, encourage them to reflect on what type of management style suits them, and evaluate what underlying social causes are they willing to support in a business setting,” said Jordyn Lieber ’23, business administration major, counseling and human services and leadership minors.
Through the process of planning and implementing this project, Dr. Cocieru’s students learned that the greater Scranton business community has done just this type of reflection on the importance of community connections and collaboration.
“I have learned that many of these small businesses have been more than willing to take on the extra work to help us raise awareness of the great work that the Children’s Advocacy Center of Northern Pennsylvania does for children who have been abused. This project has helped me realize the impact that we as college students can have on the community and how powerful our voice can be if we work together and use what we have learned to bring the Scranton community together for a great cause,” continued Lieber.
The CAC NEPA QR code awareness campaign will continue throughout the month of April, but it is important to remember this important issue all year long. For more information about the Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeastern Pennsylvania, please visit cacnepa.org. For more information and questions on The University of Scranton’s Office of Community-Based Learning, please email community@scranton.edu.
Business and Community-Partners:
Abe's Kosher Deli
Adezzo
Ale Mary's
Alfredo's
Applebees
Backyard Alehouse
Bar Pazzo
Buffalo Wild Wings
Café Classico
Carmella's Italian Deli
CK's Pizza
Commonwealth Coffeehouse
Convenient Food Mart
Cooper's Seafood House
Cuppa Cake
Da' Market on Jackson
Downtown Deli
Dunkin' Donuts
Dunmore Appliances
Ermie's Cakepops
Frutas Locas
Granteed's Pizza
Holy Rosary
Lackawanna Printing Company
Little Pizza Heaven
Local Juice Co.
Lynn Sandy's Bakery
Mansour's Market
Matarazzo's Pizza & Subs
Nina's Wings & Bites
Northern Lights
Pizza Avenue
Pizza By Pappas
Purple Pepper Deli
Sacco's Pizzeria
Scranton Pizzeria
The Releafery
Tuxedo by Sarno
Wendy's
West Side Flava's
Vince the Pizza Prince
Vincenzo's Pizzeria
Additional businesses and community-partner organizations may be added as the project progresses.CBL Project with Children’s Advocacy Center to Raise Awareness During Child Abuse Prevention Month
Meet Dante Malleo '22, a psychology major and business minor from West Caldwell, New Jersey.
What are your career goals?
After college, I plan to go to graduate school in the next year for Industrial-Organizational Psychology. Currently, I am in the process of getting a job in the recruiting field where I will be able to put skills and knowledge to the test in the real world.
What is a piece of advice you would give to a first-year student?
Honestly, I would have to say enjoy each day here at Scranton like it’s your last. You have no idea how fast time flies here. Don’t forget to take time out of your day to enjoy yourself, hang with your friends and have fun. Because these are the years where we create memories that will last a lifetime.
What will you miss most about Scranton?
What I will most at Scranton is those occasional warm sunny days after a long week of rain. Where everyone on campus is out enjoying the day and the energy is high.
What's your favorite Scranton tradition?
My favorite tradition here at Scranton is to attend La Festa. It’s a great opportunity to start the new school year with a weekend full of food and fun. Some of the best garlic knot sliders you will ever have, guaranteed.
Senior Spotlight: Dante Malleo
Fourth-generation Ukrainian-American Amelia Randich, Ph.D., an assistant professor of biology, recently led two Pysanky workshops on campus to raise money for World Central Kitchen.
“Pysanky have always been prayers for peace and prosperity in both pre-Christian and Christian times. It is said that as long as pysanky are being written somewhere in the world, the balance between good and evil is maintained. This Lent they are particularly evocative as Ukraine faces atrocities from Russian forces.” said Dr. Randich in a previous Royal News article.
To learn more about Dr. Randich and her work creating and teaching the art of pysanka, please click here.
Read about the workshop on WVIA here.
Read more in Our Sunday Visitor, here.
Professor Makes News for Pysanky Workshops Benefiting Ukraine
The University of Scranton Pre-Law Society and Criminal Justice Club hosted The Honorable Janine Edwards of the Wayne County Court of Common Pleas, 22nd Judicial District, on Thursday, April 7 in the Leahy Forum.
Judge Edwards spoke with students and faculty about her impressive career as the first female elected to District Attorney in Wayne County and her current role as the first female Judge elected to the bench in Wayne County.
Pre-Law Society and Criminal Justice Club Host Judge
The United Cultures Organization and the Multicultural Center are putting a call for members of our campus community who would like to host a country table at our Festival of Nations event. The Festival of Nations is an annual event that showcases the diversity of students/ staff/faculty we have on campus. It has always been a fun event for all. This year we want to bring back the full in-person version of this event by having members of the campus community hosting country tables. It is our hope you will consider participating to showcase the diversity of countries' cultures represented on our campus.
Participants hosting a country table will have the opportunity to showcase their countries' cultures through informational poster boards, decorations, sampling of a traditional dish, and interactive activities represented on your table. The organizers (United Cultures Organization and the Multicultural Center) will provide supplies to country table participants to present information about the countries represented at each table. Additionally, a small reimbursement will also be offered to country table participants to cover some of the cost to feature a sampling of a traditional dish at our event.
This year we will host this cherish cultural celebration on Friday, May 6th from 2 p.m.-5 p.m. on the Dionne Green and DeNaples Patio (Rain location: Byron Center)
Register to host a country table using this link.
Festival of Nations Table Signups
Transamerica will be hosting virtual individual retirement counseling sessions April 6 through June 4. These sessions will provide you the opportunity to meet with a retirement planning consultant confidentially to review and discuss your current investments, ask questions and review options to help you meet your retirement goals. Appointments will be 45 minutes in length. Schedule an appointment here.
Please contact Eileen Barrett Notarianni at eileen.notarianni@scranton.edu or at 570.941.7767 with any questions.
Transamerica - Individual Retirement Counseling
TIAA is inviting participants to schedule one-on-one retirement planning sessions with a representative from TIAA for Tuesday, April 26 and Tuesday, May 17.
Please register at tiaa.org/public/tcm/scranton
Any questions, please contact Eileen Barrett Notarianni at eileen.notarianni@scranton.edu or t 570.941.7767.
TIAA Individual Retirement Counseling
ATTENTION: GRADUATING SENIORS
Each year the Graduating Senior Class selects its "Teacher of the Year." Beginning Monday, April 25, please vote for the full-time faculty member who you believe best exhibits the following characteristics:
- Maintains the highest standards of academic excellence and fairness.
- Inspires interest in the discipline through personal enthusiasm and dedication.
- Is consistently effective in communication.
- Is available outside of the classroom.
The award will be presented during Class Night on Friday, May 20, 2022.
HOW TO VOTE: To cast your electronic ballot, access scranton.edu/toy
WHEN TO VOTE: Monday, April 25, 9:00 a.m. - Friday, April 29, 4:00 p.m.
Remember a Faculty Member Whose Teaching Has Inspired You!
Graduating Seniors: Vote for Teacher of the Year
The University of Scranton was ranked among Fortune’s “Best Online MBA Programs” listing, placing at No. 62 in the nation. This is the second year of the ranking by Fortune and is also the second year Fortune included Scranton among America’s “Best Online MBA Programs.”
For the ranking, Fortune looked at the quality of the online MBA program at the colleges as measured by their students’ average undergraduate GPA and GMAT score, the number of students enrolled, the colleges’ first-year retention rate and its graduation rate, which accounted for 62.5 percent of the overall ranking score. Fortune partnered with Ipsos to survey 2,500 business professionals and hiring managers to produce a measurement of the “brand appeal” of the college, or “how much a group of people want to recruit from the university” (20 percent). Fortune also counted the number of Fortune 1000 executives who earned an MBA from the college (17.5 percent).
Fortune’s “Best Online MBA Programs” ranking was published online on April 6.
Scranton was also ranked at No. 55 in the nation in Fortune’s 2021-2022 listing of the “Best Part-time MBA Programs.”
Earlier this year, U.S. News & World Report ranked Scranton’s online master’s degree programs in business (excluding MBA) at No. 55; and its online MBA program at No. 98 in the nation in its “Best Online Programs” guide. U.S. News also ranked Scranton at No. 65 in the country for “Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans.”
Fortune Picks Scranton Among Best Online MBAs
Douglas M. Boyle, D.B.A., professor and chair of The University of Scranton’s Accounting Department and director of its nationally recognized DBA program, was selected as the 2022 Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) Research Foundation Distinguished Scholar.
The prestigious national award, based on peer recommendations, recognizes the recipient’s body of research and its relevance to the mission of IMA Research Foundation, as well as the awardee’s contribution to the management accounting body of knowledge and demonstrated practical value to accounting and financial professionals. The IMA Distinguished Scholar Award, which will be formally presented at the American Accounting Association’s annual meeting in San Diego in August, was previously known as the IMA Research Foundation Siegel Lifetime Achievement Award.
Dr. Boyle has received numerous accolades for his research. The Brigham Young University Accounting Rankings, which internationally recognizes and ranks accounting faculty members based on their research publication success in top-tier, peer-reviewed accounting journals, placed Dr. Boyle No. 7 in the world in 2021 and 2020 reports for accounting education research. An article published by Dr. Boyle and Scranton accounting professors James Boyle, D.B.A., and Daniel Mahoney, Ph.D., won the IMA’s Lybrand Gold Medal as the “outstanding article of the year” for 2019; and an article published by Dr. Boyle, Dr. Mahoney and University Accounting Professor Brian Carpenter, Ph.D., received the 2016 Lybrand Gold Medal. His articles with Scranton professors and DBA students also won Lybrand Silver Medals in 2021, 2020, and 2015 and Lybrand Bronze Medals in 2020 and 2014, in addition to other awards.
Dr. Boyle’s research has been published in numerous academic and refereed journals, such as The Journal of Accounting and Public Policy (JAPP), Accounting Horizons, Current Issues in Auditing, The Journal of Accounting Education, The Accounting Educators’ Journal, The Journal of Accountancy, Strategic Finance, Fraud Magazine, Internal Auditor, Management Accounting Quarterly, The CPA Journal, Internal Auditing, The Journal of Applied Business Research and The Journal of Business and Behavioral Sciences.
A Certified Public Accountant as well as a Certified Management Accountant, Dr. Boyle has more than 30 years of industry experience. He has served in executive roles in startup, middle market and Fortune 500 companies where he has held the positions of chief executive officer, president, chief operations officer and chief financial officer.
An award-winning teacher, Dr. Boyle was profiled for the past three years as one of just six “Professors to Know in Business Programs Based in the Northeast” selected by Bschools.org, an online resource for entrepreneurs.
At Scranton, Dr. Boyle was named the Kania School of Management’s (KSOM) Alperin Teaching Fellow for 2015 to 2018 and received the KSOM Advisory Board’s Award for Curriculum Innovation for 2017-2018. He has twice earned the KSOM Teacher of the Year award and earned the Provost Excellence Awards for the Scholarship of Teaching in 2014 and for Scholarly Publication in 2012 and the Faculty Senate’s Excellence in Graduate Teaching Award in 2019. He was awarded the Outstanding Accounting Educator of the Year Award from the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants in 2015 and an Outstanding Lecturer Award from the Cultural Mission of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in 2012. He is also the founder and director of the University’s Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program.
Scranton’s DBA program has received international recognition when the prestigious accrediting body, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), listed the program in 2019 among the “Innovations and Best Practices in Canada, Latin America and the United States.” Two DBA students have received the prestigious Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Michael J. Barrett Doctoral Dissertation Award.
Dr. Boyle earned a bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton, an MBA from Columbia University and a doctorate from Kennesaw State University.
Accounting Professor Named Distinguished Scholar
During the spring semester, the Schemel Forum at The University of Scranton will explore the extraordinary life and influence of Rev. George Schemel, S.J., who served on Scranton’s faculty and inspired his friends and colleagues to found the Schemel Forum 16 years ago.
On Monday, April 25, in collaboration with Scranton’s Jesuit Center, the University will present “A Schemel Legacy: The Engineer and the Monk.” The program will be conducted by Fr. Schemel’s two nephews, whom he most profoundly inspired: Christopher F. Schemel, Ph.D., president of Delta Q Consultants, Inc., and courtesy professor of chemical engineering at the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa; and Brother Mario Joseph Schemel, a Trappist monk at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit near Conyers, Georgia.
Dr. Schemel is a leading expert in fire and explosion dynamics and chemical process safety. Before joining the monastery in 2010, Br. Mario, spent 15 years in industry and 15 years in academia. The brothers will describe the influence that Father George had on them in their respective callings.
The Schemel Forum was founded at the University in July 2006 through generous gifts to the Rev. George Schemel, S.J., Fund, created by friends of the beloved campus Jesuit. The program aims to provide people of all ages with the opportunity to explore the intellectual and cultural wonders of the world via a range of lectures and courses.
“A Schemel Legacy: The Engineer and the Monk” will take place at 5:30 p.m. in the Pearn Auditorium of Brennan Hall, followed by a reception. Admission is free for University students, faculty and staff and Schemel Forum members. For non-members, the fee is $25.
To register, contact Alicen Morrison, Schemel Forum assistant, at 570-941-6206 or alicen.morrison@scranton.edu. To pay by credit card over the phone, contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816, or to pay online, visit: www.scranton.edu/schemelforum.
For more information on Schemel Forum programs and memberships, contact Sondra Myers, Schemel Forum director, at 570-941-4089 or sondra.myers@scranton.edu.
Program to Explore Life of George Schemel, S.J.
All students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to a special diversity and inclusion lunch and learn event.
Members of the University’s Black History subcommittee of the Council on Diversity and Inclusion will present on Re-Membering Blackness at The University of Scranton: History as a Call to Action.
Thursday, April 28, 2022
11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
in the Moskovitz Theater, DeNaples Center, 4th floor
and via YouTube live stream
RSVP is required.
The Institutional Black History subcommittee of the University’s Council on Diversity and Inclusion (CDI) seeks to examine the University’s historical relationships with Black faculty, staff, students and the broader community as part of campus efforts to address anti-Black racism and foster greater diversity, equity and inclusion. Grounded in the University’s Jesuit and Catholic mission, these efforts draw on notions of “moral memory” – the collective and moral act of remembering – and “metanoia” – a process of individual and community-based change, spiritual transformation, and renewal.
This presentation and Q&A will provide an update on the work of the Institutional Black History committee and overview of the University’s Black history, as gathered so far through student research conducted by HIST 190 Digital History students, the Weinberg Memorial Library, and subcommittee members. How this research informs the present and the future, including the formation of a Black Studies program, will be discussed. Presenters will include:
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Julie Schumacher Cohen (Chair), Assistant Vice President for Community Engagement & Government Affairs
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Koebe Diaz, Black Student Union Officer, Class of 2022
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David Dzurec, Ph.D., Associate Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, and Interim Executive Director of Slattery Center for the Humanities
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Colleen Farry, Assistant Professor, Digital Services Librarian, Weinberg Memorial Library
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Nicole Hoskins, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Theology/Religious Studies
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Aiala Levy, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of History, Latin American Studies, and Women’s and Gender Studies
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Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., Dean, College of Arts and Sciences
For more information, visit www.scranton.edu/rememberingblackness, a digital project supported by the staff and faculty of the Weinberg Memorial Library.
Please RSVP here. This program is open to the university and Scranton community. A box lunch will be provided. Questions? Contact diversity@scranton.edu.
Co-sponsored by: The University of Scranton Jesuit Center, Office of Equity and Diversity, Council on Diversity and Inclusion’s Institutional Black History subcommittee, and Office of Community Relations.
Re-Membering Blackness: History as a Call to Action
Dive into crystal waters, swimming with sting rays, and harboring mysterious shipwrecks when visiting the Cayman Islands. James Powell ’24, sophomore accounting major, will present the last spring Global Insights program on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at 11:30 a.m., in the Rose Room, Brennan Hall 509. Registration is required.
Powell says his favorite activities are volleyball, kayaking, and scuba diving into the historic ship graveyards off the coast of the islands. “Paddle boarding is pretty relaxing as the water is so calm there.” Tourists can enjoy boat rides to Rum Point and Sting Ray City, where you can actually pet the sting rays.
Scuba and snorkeling are also very fruitful as he and family and friends hunt for conch, lobster and turtle delicacies from the ocean.
Powell comes to the University of Scranton as a BIG4 accounting scholarship recipient. He says he enjoys the changing weather here in Pennsylvania. He likes the cold and doesn’t mind the rain and snow.
Students, faculty and staff are invited to experience the food and traditions at this Global Insights event. Please register here.
This program is being offered by the Office of Global Education, the Cross Cultural Centers, Residence Life and the Office of Equity and Diversity. For more information, please contact international@scranton.edu or 570-941-4841.
Global Insights Features the Cayman Islands
During the week of April 4-8 seven University of Scranton students met with local legislators as a part of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania (AICUP) Advocacy Week 2022. This annual event offers students from Pennsylvania’s over 90 AICUP schools an opportunity to meet face to face with PA state legislators, engage in advocacy work, and to share their own stories and experiences of the impact that PA state funding has made on their educational journeys.
This annual event typically takes place in the Capitol building in Harrisburg, PA, however this year the event shifted to a hybrid format. The University of Scranton elected to hold this year’s legislative meetings in-person in the legislator’s district offices and on campus. This new format offered students a chance to go to see the various district offices of legislators, meet with the legislators and their staff, and to learn more about the local greater Scranton area.
“Having the opportunity to engage with our local state legislators was a great experience. They truly care for the students of PA and are working to ensure our continued success by keeping higher education affordable,” said Kiera Flannery ‘24.
Legislators and their staff generously gave their time and attention to the important issues that the University students raised regarding the impact PA state funding makes for students at independent nonprofit colleges and universities.
“Getting to meet with local officials as a representative for AICUP was a great experience! I got to advocate for funding for higher education all while making personal connections with members of the political sphere. I learned a lot about the field and developed an even deeper passion for entering advocacy and government work,” said Ana Postowski ‘24.
In addition to offering University of Scranton students the opportunity to advocate for a cause that directly impacts them, students also were able to engage with legislators in a personal way.
"As a native of Scranton, meeting with local legislators was a new and exciting experience. The legislators were welcoming and engaged in our lives at the University of Scranton. Advocacy week presented us with advice for the future and a genuine view of the officials we are voting for," said Olivia Hudak ‘24.
For students attending colleges and universities issues of scholarships and funding are critical to making attending these institutions possible.
"I was raised in a family that values education so meeting with my state representative was a priority. To me it was about advocating for many other young people to be able to get into institutions of higher learning with help from state funding; it was very important to me as a beneficiary of a University scholarship because without external support it is financially difficult to go to college. It was also an opportunity for me to share with the legislator some of my story of coming to this country as a refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo and the value of a college education,” said Ushu Mukelo ’22.
In addition to being able to directly share the difference that Pennsylvania state funding makes on the ability to access higher education, students also witness the impact of civic engagement.
“My participation in AICUP Advocacy week has given me first-hand experience with lobbying for a cause I feel passionate about. Meeting with local state representatives has made me realize how easily I can make a difference in my community,” said Elizabeth Wescoe ’23.
It was a powerful experience for students to engage directly with legislators in conversations about the issues that are a part of their everyday lives.
“This experience was extremely insightful in realizing the importance of political engagement in your local community. From bonding over our shared experience of being a student at ‘the U’ to discussing favorite local spots, local legislators can better understand your personal story. Being a first-year political science major, this was my first experience with meeting legislators. Not only did this ‘humanize’ the people behind politics and policy, but also, I believe that, for them, putting a face to the constituent makes advocating for issues more impactful than simply advocating for a statistic or a number,” said Karla Shaffer ’24.
Carolyn M. Bonacci, community and civic engagement coordinator, served as this year’s campus coordinator in the Office of Community & Government Relations and collaborated with Crystal Ondrick, assistant director of financial aid, to help prepare students in advance of their legislative meetings. Students also joined a pre-meeting hosted by AICUP to learn more about advocacy work.
“It is my hope that participating in events like AICUP Advocacy Week will empower University of Scranton students to see the impact that their voices can make not only within the local community but also more broadly on the causes and issues that students care about most. I believe that having the opportunity to speak directly with our local legislators truly was an invaluable experience for the students, with many noting that this experience reinforced their passion for political science and civic engagement,” said Bonacci.
The University of Scranton is grateful to Rep. Mike Carroll, Rep. Kyle Mullins, Rep. Bridget Koseiroski, Rep. Thom Welby, and Nolan Trently, Scranton office director for Sen. Marty Flynn, for their participation in this year’s event.
AICUP Advocacy Week 2022 University of Scranton student participants:
Kiera Flannery, class of 2024, political science major, legal studies concentration
Olivia Hudak, class of 2024, English major, philosophy minor, legal studies concentration
Ushu Mukelo, class of 2022, political science major
Conor Nealon, class of 2022, political science and strategic communications double major
Ana Postowski, class of 2024, political science major, philosophy and public policy and service minors
Karla Shaffer, class of 2024, political science major, environmental studies concentration
Elizabeth Wescoe, class of 2023, political science major, history minor, environmental studies concentration
University Students Meet With Legislators To Advocate For Higher Education
The nomination process for seats on the University's Staff Senate is now open.
Employees can submit nominations with this form until 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 20. Nominations can be emailed to roseann.jubinski@scranton.edu or delivered to Kristi Klien, 115 Ciszek Hall.
If you nominate a colleague, you must first receive their permission to be nominated and placed on the ballot.
The following seats are available:
Clerical: 3 seats and 2 alternates
Maintenance/Custodial, Trades, Technical, Police: 2 seats and 2 alternates
Professional/Paraprofessional: 7 seats and 2 alternates.
Full/Part-time employees having completed one year of employment by April 15 within the Clerical, Maintenance, Technical, Trades, Para-professional or Professional positions are eligible to run for a seat.
The Senate is composed of 27 senators and 6 alternates within the three employee groups.
If you have any questions, contact a Staff Senate Officer or Senator. Use the following link to view the Staff Senate website & learn more about the Staff Senate. scranton.edu/staff-senate/index.shtml
We look forward to hearing from, working with and for you!
President: Gina Butler
President-Elect: Mark Murphy
Vice-President: Kristi Klien
Secretary: Rose Ann Jubinski
Parliamentarian: Pauline Palko
Nomination Period for Staff Senate Now Open Through April 20
Paper Eaters Document Destruction will offer free shredding of personal files and documents for University faculty and staff on Tuesday, April 19 from noon to 2 p.m. The shredding will take place at a Paper Eaters mobile shredding truck in front of St. Thomas Hall.
This free service is not to be used for purging files and documents from University offices.
Free Document Shredding for Employees
The median annual wage for human resources specialists and compensation/benefits specialists was $60,350 and $119,120, respectively, in May 2017. Additionally, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth in this field to nearly double, from five to nine percent, between 2016 and 2026.
Professionals working in human resources are responsible for a wide variety of jobs in corporate settings including recruitment, employee relations, payroll, benefits, training and administration of human resources policies. Examples of potential careers include compensation and benefits managers, human resources managers, and training and development managers.
The University of Scranton’s bachelor of science program in human resources studies is an interdisciplinary major that incorporates courses from the social and behavioral sciences, business and liberal arts. With flexibility in the curriculum, students have the chance to pursue a minor in business administration, psychology or other related fields.
Coursework is designed to actively engage students in applying theory to real-world scenarios and emphasize the development of decision-making, interpersonal, leadership, organizational and speaking skills. With small classes capped at around 25 to 30 students, Scranton human resources studies student get to know faculty and get individualized advice on their unique career aspirations from professionals who have worked in the field.
As part of the Panuska College of Professional Studies, students are required to complete at least 80 hours of service learning aimed at developing student engagement with their community. Additionally, human resources studies students complete 120 hours of internship experience their senior year in order to get hands-on experience outside of the classroom and under the supervision of human resources professionals. Recent internship sites include Nestle USA, Allied Services, Scranton Times-Tribune and Hilton Hotels-NY.
Outside of the classroom, students can get involved in the department by joining the student chapter of the Society for Human Resources Management, related clubs and honor societies.
Scranton graduates can be found working in companies like Goldman Sachs, Lockheed Martin, L’Oréal NY and Starwood Hotels and Resorts.
See Where a Degree in Human Resources Can Take You
The Weinberg Memorial Library will continue its partnership with Aramark by creating a convenient food and beverage service in the library’s Pro Deo room. Over Summer 2022, the Java City Cafe will be replaced with the Scranton Market, which will feature standard to-go food items and beverages as well as prepared meals ready to heat and eat on site. The market will be unstaffed and completely self-service. The registers will accept both Royal Card and credit card transactions.
Because the Scranton Market will be unstaffed and in the Library’s Pro Deo room, it will be the first 24/7 food service location on Campus.
The Market will also feature a Yo-Kai Express noodle station. The Yo-Kai can hold more than ten different specialty noodle bowls, such as Tonkotsu Ramen, Vegan Udon, Shrimp Tempura Udon, Spicy Kimchi Pork Miso Ramen, Beef Pho, Chicken Pho, and more.
Library Will Create Self-Service Food Market
Gerard Dumancas, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry at The University of Scranton, received a $1.158 million National Science Foundation funded Noyce Scholars grant that will support future science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) high school teachers in high-need school districts.
The grant, which will be allocated over a five-year period beginning (this summer) (in the 2022-2023 academic year), will provide a scholarships and educational training support to 21 STEM students with a major or minor in secondary education.
“There are many areas in the United States that are in need of great high school science and mathematics teachers in Pennsylvania – really across the country. We have advanced technologies in the U.S., yet many of our students lag behind those in other countries, especially with skills related to the sciences and mathematics. As educators, we are trying to train and build the workforce of the future, and their high school exposure to the sciences and math is a key element to their – and our – future,” said Dr. Dumancas, a widely published analytical chemist, who considers himself to be “a teacher first.”
Dr. Dumancas’s research on the development and application of novel spectroscopic and computational tools applied to chemical analysis of food and biomedical products has been published in multiple top-tier, peer-reviewed academic journals. Since coming to The University of Scranton, he has published four research articles and submitted four book chapters.
“It takes a great deal of support to make a good science or mathematics teacher,” said Dr. Dumancas.
The NSF grant provides a financial stipend to participants selected to become Noyce Scholars, in addition to affording them early field teaching experience and mentoring opportunities with practicing teachers in partner schools. Noyce Scholars will also participate in special courses to expose them to computational science methods, among other educational opportunities in the sciences.
“The grant is geared to provide documented support to students to make them successful as high school STEM teachers,” said Dr. Dumancas, who said the success of the scholars is monitored and is part of the research collected through the grant. Programs that prove to be successful can receive additional support in the future.
Mid Valley School District and Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) are partner schools for the grant. Students at these schools will have the opportunity to participate in special programming in the STEM fields at the University supported by the University faculty and Noyce Scholars.
University students in their senior or junior year of studies, majoring or minoring in secondary education in the STEM field and meeting other academic and program requirements can apply to become a Noyce Scholar for the fall 2022 semester. LCCC students continuing their education at Scranton who meet the program requirements can also apply to the program for their junior and senior years. Students selected to the program are required to teach in a high-need school district anywhere in the United States for two years for each year of their participation as a Noyce Scholar.
Applications for the program will become available in the coming weeks, but anyone interested could contact Dr. Dumancas by email at gerard.dumancas@scranton.edu.
Dr. Dumancas joined the faculty at Scranton in the spring of 2022. He earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of the Philippines and his Ph.D. in analytical chemistry from Oklahoma State University. During his career, Dr. Dumancas has generated more than $2 million in external research grants and has published more than 40 manuscripts in peer-reviewed academic journals.
Professor NSF Grant Supports Future STEM Teachers
Scranton freshman Katie Egan, Long Island, recognizes there are many perspectives of the world and freedom.
“There’s a lot to be done to create a society where there’s freedom and people have the ability to exist,” Egan said.
The University of Scranton welcomed about 50 students and community members to a political dialogue on Tuesday, March 22, 2022. The event, "Freedom and the Founding: What Do They Mean For Us Today," tied into the National Endowment for the Humanities funded project, “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story.”
The two-year project highlights the people of Scranton, particularly those in underrepresented communities. It draws in methods of the university’s Dialogue Across Differences initiative that began in 2017 and is based on the idea that while each human identity is rich and complicated, common ideas of values and democracy can be uncovered through discussion.
Julie Schumacher Cohen, assistant vice president of community engagement and government affairs, said they are looking to explore the story of the founding of the country in the context of Scranton.
“We think we have a great story to tell here in Scranton,” Cohen said.
Event coordinators gave an overview of the concept of “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story,” inquiring about what we can do to make freedom more real for more people. They described the purpose of the discussion and applauded the participants for making the active choice to engage in dialogue with others who may not share the same views.
Each group was led by facilitators who began by reviewing a confidentiality agreement that allows people to speak freely on their values without the threat of repetition outside of the space.
Guiding the dialogue process, facilitators posed pre-written questions meant to allow participants to reflect on their own experiences with freedom. Questions, building upon one another to connect freedom to concepts such as the common good and the nation, were asked with time for the group to think about their ideas. Then participants shared their thoughts within 1-2 minute timeframes, as well as open discussion.
At the end, students and community members were asked to reflect on what they heard. The closing section called on participants to think about what they will take from the discussion, and how it will impact their actions moving forward.
Scranton sophomore Emma Warras, New Jersey, said how she will be expanding her education in the future.
“Already knew that coming into this, but I need to do that even more,” Warras said.
This article was written by Corinne Berger as part of a Media Writing course with photos by Bryson Eldridge.
Scranton Students, Residents Discuss Freedom
The Diversity Initiatives Review Board is accepting applications for grants in support of creative, educational programs that PROMOTE diversity, provide opportunity for inter-cultural engagement, and expand opportunities for multicultural experiences for our community.
The Diversity Initiatives Fund is available to campus groups, departments or individuals seeking to promote a greater understanding of diversity through inclusive pedagogies, educational opportunities, multicultural activities and community outreach programs. The grant is intended to launch new, innovative, or educational opportunities for the University community. Recurring projects may apply for funding as well.
Student applicants and part-time employees are required to have a full-time staff or full-time faculty sponsor. Student Clubs are required to have approval of the club moderator and the Coordinator of Student Clubs and Organizations. Individual staff members and non-full-time faculty must obtain approval from their supervisor or department chair, respectively. Sponsorship or approval must be obtained prior to applying for the grant.
To view previous projects and awards, and review the 21-22 grant guidelines and application, please visit: https://www.scranton.edu/equity-diversity/diversity-initiative.shtml
Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis. Semester deadlines for applications are November 30 and April 30, with the Review Board meeting in December and May of each academic year to discuss approval.
Questions on the application process may be sent to Jennifer.pennington@scranton.edu.
Broaden Your Cultural Horizons with a Diversity Project!
Note: Campus access and other health and safety information will be updated throughout the semester and can be seen on the Royals Back Together webpage.
May 9-13 Art Exhibit: “The University of Scranton Student Exhibition.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
May 7-8 8 a.m. National History Day State Competition for qualifying students from Pennsylvania. Pre-registration required. Call 570-941-4549 or email nhdparegion2@gmail.com.
May 7 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital” featuring John Romeri, organist and John Romeri, flautist. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
May 14 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring The University of Scranton String Orchestra with special guests. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
May 21 Noon Undergraduate Commencement. Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza. Wilkes-Barre. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
May 21 5 p.m. Graduate Commencement. Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza. Wilkes-Barre. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
May 22 10:30 a.m. Commencement Baccalaureate Mass. Byron Recreation Complex. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
University Announces Planned May Events
Continuing its commitment to presenting world class musical talent, Performance Music at The University of Scranton will spotlight the work of guest composer/conductor Javier Nero at its 39th annual World Premiere Composition Series Concert on Saturday, April 30. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
At the concert, The University of Scranton Concert Band and Concert Choir will premiere two brand-new commissioned works by Nero written specifically for the University’s student ensembles, entitled The Return (for concert band) and One Day (for six part choir), according to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga.
An internationally award-winning jazz trombonist, composer, arranger and educator, Nero recently won the position of lead trombone in the prestigious U. S. Army Blues, the big band jazz element of The U. S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in Washington, D.C. His compositions have been described by Grammy Award-winning trumpeter Brian Lynch as “modern, sophisticated yet accessible, pleasing the player and listener alike.”
In addition to his career with the Army Blues, Nero also performs in the D.C. and N.Y.C. areas with two of his ensembles, the Javier Nero Septet and the Javier Nero Jazz Orchestra. With the Septet, he released his first album, “Freedom” and his big band album will be released later this year. He has also been a member of the award-winning Haitian band Klass, which has toured the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, South America and France.
Nero’s compositions and arrangements have earned him awards from Downbeat magazine, as well as participation in the Betty Carter Jazz Ahead Program and the Banff Centre’s international workshop in jazz and creative music, and his works have been performed by the Juilliard Jazz Orchestra, Frost Symphony Orchestra, Studio Jazz Orchestra, Jazz Vocal 1, Extensions, the Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra and the Knoxville Jazz Orchestra.
As a trombonist, Nero has won first place in four international jazz solo competitions, including the 2011 International Trombone Association’s Carl Fontana Competition, the ITA’s 2013 JJ Johnson Competition, the 2014 American Trombone Workshop National Jazz Solo Competition and the 2015 Texas State Trombone Symposium Jazz Trombone Competition. He was also a finalist in the Detroit Jazz Festival’s Curtis Fuller National Solo Competition, and he recently won and placed as finalist for two consecutive years in the Ithaca College Jazz Composer Contest.
Nero received his Bachelor of Music from the Juilliard School, a Master of Music in studio/jazz writing from the University of Miami, and a Doctor of Musical Arts with a minor in classical trombone performance from Miami’s Frost School of Music.
All audience members are required to wear a higher-grade mask (N95, KN95, KF94 or double masking) at all times. Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the concert for the most current information on additional required audience COVID-19 mitigation measures (e.g., masking, vaccination, distancing, etc.).
For further information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more info on Nero, visit www.javiernero.com.
World Premiere Composition Series Concert April 30
Sursum Corda Awards were presented to four staff members, and University of Scranton President Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., delivered his first State of the University address at the Spring Convocation, which took place in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center on April 5. In addition, new staff members who joined the University between Jan. 31, 2020 through April 1, 2022, were recognized.
Sursum Corda (Lift Up Your Hearts) Awards recognize members of the University’s professional/paraprofessional staff, clerical/technical staff and maintenance/public safety staff who have made outstanding contributions to the life and mission of the University. This year’s recipients were: Cindy Hricko, business applications analyst and manager of enterprise application for Information Technology; Kristi Klien, administrative assistant for the Center for Career Development; Maria Marinucci, director of the Cross Cultural Centers; and Pete Sakowski, network resources technician.
In his remarks, Father Marina thanked the award recipients for their service to the University and said the Sursum Corda, Lift Up Your Hearts, is “an award so fitting for Kristi, Pete, Cindy and Maria, and all those who have received this award before you.”
In his address, he referred to the state of universities in the nation as being “the best of times and the worst of times,” referencing the famous opening words of the Charles Dickens novel “A Tale of Two Cities.”
He outlined a number of challenges facing colleges and universities, then acknowledged the many in-roads The University of Scranton has already begun to address these issues and to advance Scranton’s mission as a Catholic and Jesuit university. These include renovations made to Hyland Hall to support the new mechanical engineering major and the University’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategic Plan that was formed through input from constituencies from all over the University, among other initiatives.
“At the last meeting of the Board of Trustees, the Board unanimously approved the creation of the Opening Doors Scholarship Fund to meet the unmet need of students seeking to enroll at Scranton who have graduated from Cristo Rey High Schools, Arrupe College and other institutions with similar missions,” said Father Marina. “Our Trustees are contributing to this fund from their own personal resources and already, after just a couple of months, there is more than $400,000 in this new fund, which will advance our goals for both access and affordability and increasing the diversity of our student body.”
In closing, Father Marina referred again to the Charles Dickens quote.
“In higher education, the present days can be considered as the best of times and the worst of times because of both the opportunities as well as the great challenges that currently exist. Yet, if we meet these challenges together, as friends and colleagues in mission, we can turn them into opportunities. If we are able to do that, then the worst of times will dissipate and only the best will remain,” said Father Marina.
University Holds Spring Convocation
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague’s accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!
THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for April 2022 is Dylan Popien - Facilities!
We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Dylan does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Dylan and all our February nominees.
How long have you worked at the University?
I've worked at the University since November 2020, so coming up on a year and a half.
What do you like best about your job?
Conversing with professors, staff, and students whose paths I cross throughout my workday.
What do you like to do for fun?
One of the things I do for fun is watch soccer. I make it a point to watch a game or two every weekend with friends.
Dylan will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University foodservice outlets, as well as a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavillon for the month of April. Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition event in May to receive a certificate of appreciation. We congratulate Dylan, and all the other nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees.
April 2022:
Justin Tambeau - Facilities
Glen Pace - IT Client Services
Karl Johns -Technology Support Center
Lucy Grissinger - ORAS
Karl Johns - Technology Support Services
Thomas Cody-Infrastructure & Security Services
Mevlida Kasumovic – Facilities
Carol Policastro – Facilities
Paul Snopek – Facilities
Ajisa Alic – Facilities
Dale Martin – Facilities
Lynn Gavin-Center for Service and Social Justice
Dylan Popien - Facilities
Announcing the April 2022 Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award Winner
The following is the Mass schedule during Holy Week and Easter break for students, faculty and staff of the University:
Palm Sunday (April 10): Our annual campus-wide Mass will take place at 5:00 p.m. in the Byron Center. There will also be Mass on Palm Sunday at 11:00 a.m. in Madonna della Strada Chapel.
Monday, April 11 thru Wednesday, April, 13: Mass will be celebrated at 12:05 PM in Sacred Heart Chapel
Thursday, April 14 thru Monday, April 18: There will be no Masses or services during this period as our campus is closed for Easter break.
Tuesday, April 19: Normal Mass schedule resumes on campus with the 12:05 PM Mass in Sacred Heart Chapel.
May you and your families have a blessed Holy Week and joyous Easter.
Faculty, Staff, Students: Mass Schedule, Holy Week and Easter Break
Meet John C. Norcross, Ph.D., ABPP, Distinguished Professor & Chair of Psychology, who loves the science of human behavior. Here, he talks about the broad and diverse field and the student internship program.
VIDEO: Faculty Spotlight: John Norcross, Ph.D.
The Staff Senate Communications Committee and Department of Human Resources invite you to attend this semester's Communications Symposium on Tuesday, April 19, from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the Moskovitz Theater in The DeNaples Center. The symposium will also be live-streamed to be viewed virtually, but not recorded. A light lunch will be served "to-go" at the end of the symposium for attendees who attend in-person.
No matter how you plan on attending (in-person or live-stream), please fill out the registration form by following the link below. Within the form is a place to submit a question or questions to one or more of our panelists:
Communication Symposium Registration – Spring 2022
This semester's symposium will highlight two key components of the Strategic Plan: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Campus Sustainability
Our panelists include:
Elizabeth Garcia, Esq., Special Assistant to the President, Executive Director for the Office of Equity and Diversity
Kate Yerkes, Assistant Provost for Planning and Institutional Effectiveness
Mark Murphy, Director of Sustainability and Energy Management
The new campus-wide plan for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) was approved by Cabinet and endorsed by the Board of Trustees in February. This plan outlines action steps to address the University’s broader 2020 Strategic Plan DEI goal and objectives. Now, how can the University community (you) support, guide and implement the plan? Liz Garcia and Kate Yerkes will review the core themes of the plan, some efforts already underway, the role of the Council for Diversity and Inclusion and others on campus, and how you can get involved. They will also show you where to access plan-related resources, progress updates, and how you can share information about your own DEI efforts.
Campus Sustainability is a team effort that includes all members of our campus and the local community. Please join us to learn how our campus teaches our students and the world how to Care for our Common Home using many campus sustainable practices and activities. Such as faculty research, green courses in all schools, Bike Share Scranton, community garden, student Society for Sustainability & Conservation, Students for a Better Future, LEED buildings, green purchasing, solar power, Princeton Review Green Schools, fresh food company, Jesuit Center Laudato Si’ program, and the Celebrate Earth Day Everyday awareness events.
Please register by Wednesday, April 13!
Staff Senate Communications Symposium, April 19
We sat down with business analytics students Matthew Duffy '25 and Sean Smith ’23 to ask them about their experience at The University of Scranton. Here's how it went.
VIDEO: Students Talk Business Analytics
This week's senior spotlight is with Meg McGrath '22, Drexel Hill, a biology and philosophy major and French and biochemistry minor, in the SJLA Program.
What was the best class you’ve taken in college? And why?
I got to take an honors tutorial on the philosophical influences of St. Ignatius. In this class, we read the philosophical and theological works that he would have read. I learned a lot of philosophy from this class, and I have a deeper understanding of St. Ignatius’s spirituality after this class, as well.
What’s the coolest thing you did at Scranton?
I did an internship through the University the summer after my freshman year with the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI). I was able to live and do research on Barro Colorado Island, a Smithsonian research station, in the Panama Canal! I did field research every day, and I was able to explore Panama City and hike a volcano.
What will you miss most about Scranton?
I will miss being with my SJLA community. Every class has brought me so much joy, and I have made so many close friends through this program. SJLA has helped me develop a love for philosophy in addition to biology, and I never would have discovered this passion if I had not come to Scranton.
What’s on your bucket list this spring?
This spring, I want to go to as many cafes and restaurants in Scranton as possible. My absolute favorite is Northern Lights, but I love exploring Scranton and all of the food is so good!
Senior Spotlight: Meg McGrath
After more than a year of research, discussion and discernment, The University of Scranton has released its new campus-wide plan for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). The plan provides a foundational framework and specifies concrete actions for the University community to address diversity and inclusion on campus.
Rev. Joseph R. Marina, S.J., University president, announced the plan at Scranton’s Convocation on April 5.
The new plan, developed to support directly the Strategic Plan, will guide the University as it seeks to reflect and understand “. . . the diversity of the world by demanding that diversity be a priority as we build an inclusive community and campus culture, and develop and deliver our education and shape our student experience.”
According to the DEI Plan, “The University strives to frame its mission, strategy and policies within the body of Catholic Social Teaching, that deep and profound collection of teachings that calls us to recognize the dignity of each and every human person, to work together in building a truly just society, and to live lives of faith, hope and love. In doing so, the University participates in the life and mission of the Church for the purpose of having an authentic impact on all those it serves and who comprise its community.”
The plan recognizes diversity, equity and inclusion as integral to the Catholic and Jesuit mission of the University. The action steps outlined in each of these areas directly respond to the broader objectives of the Strategic Plan. The six focal areas of the plan include:
- institutional commitment, transparency, coordination and accountability, improving collaboration and communication throughout the campus community;
- the student experience, expanding engagement and support for diversity and inclusion for all students, including those from historically underrepresented and underserved populations;
- the academic experience, broadening learning opportunities and assuring equity of access to academic and learning support resources for all;
- the faculty and staff experience, building a more structured approach to recruitment, hiring, and training and support resources for our employees;
- student recruitment, enrollment and retention, expanding enrollment of diverse and underrepresented populations, and better understanding and addressing student attrition and retention trends;
- and alumni and community engagement, expanding our reach in the community, engagement with alumni, and understanding their experiences.
Creating the plan was a first-year priority for the Strategic Plan’s implementation.
“It was also important to make the DEI Strategic Plan a priority given the Black Lives Matter movement and the murders of George Floyd and others in the Black and Brown Community, and after holding several listening sessions during the summer of 2020,” said Elizabeth M. Garcia, Esq., co-chair of the DEI planning committee special assistant to the president, executive director for the Office of Equity and Diversity, Title IX coordinator.
The plan calls for leadership commitment, coordination of campus efforts and transparency, assessment and accountability, ensuring that “everyone is making DEI a priority,” said Garcia.
Students played an important part in helping to shape the plan and will be integral in efforts moving forward. Adrianna Smith ’22 was a member of the planning team this past year during her tenure as president of Student Government.
“The University showed its dedication to all our student populations by including them in all stages of planning from preliminary ideas to the final product,” said Smith. “These new changes will work to improve the daily experience of students on our campus and hopefully ensure that everyone feels that they have an equal and loving place in our community.”
Find out more about the plan, its pillars and its overall findings and implementation at scranton.edu/diversityplan.
University Campus-wide Plan for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Released
The University will hold a Survivorship Ceremony at this year’s Relay For Life in the Long Center lobby April 29 at 5 p.m.
The Relay For Life movement is dedicated to helping communities attack cancer. The Survivorship Ceremony is an opportunity for cancer survivors to discuss their experiences over a meal. Alumni cancer survivors are invited to attend this year’s ceremony and can bring up to two guests to the event, which will include dinner provided by Relay For Life. They are also invited to attend the Relay For Life, which will begin immediately after the Survivorship Ceremony.
To register for the Survivorship Ceremony, email rebecca.reynolds@scranton.edu by April 14. To register for the Relay For Life, visit this link.
Alumni Cancer Survivors Invited To Relay For Life Survivorship Ceremony April 29
The Office of Community-Based Learning is pleased to announce its inaugural “CBL Walk: West Scranton” for Friday, Apr. 22 at 3 p.m. This CBL Walk will offer University of Scranton students an opportunity to explore the West Scranton neighborhood. During this event students will hear from community-partners, meet local business owners and gain first-hand experience in the Scranton community.
Students will be transported by bus to West Scranton, driving past the University’s Quinn Athletics Campus. Upon arrival students will set out in small groups led by members from community-partner NeighborWorks NEPA to explore the Main Ave. business corridor. Highlights of the walk will include opportunities for students to greet and hear from business owners and to learn about organizations working in this area such as the Community Justice Project, NeighborWorks NEPA, and United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC). After walking the 100 block of South Main Ave., students will then meet in UNC’s Oppenheim Center to hear more from community-partner organizations and business owners from various areas of West Scranton while enjoying delicious snacks and treats from some of the neighborhood’s many restaurants.
Space for this event is limited and registration is required at: surveymonkey.com/r/WalkWestSide
Students can register directly and faculty members are encouraged to share this opportunity as part of CBL or other courses. Post-walk reflection questions will be provided.
Scranton’s West Side neighborhood has a rich history that connects to the larger Scranton story. In the late 1800’s, the Hyde Park section of West Scranton was the location of one of the city’s coal crackers, and with this industry came waves of people immigrating to Scranton. Welsh, Irish, Italian, Lebanese , and Polish are just a few of the ethnicities with long-standing ties to the West Scranton neighborhood. These cultural and ethnic influences are still a vibrant part of the community and are enriched by the continuous growth of the neighborhood, with additional communities, including those from the Dominican Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and beyond, moving to this area of Scranton.
This CBL Walk will offer University of Scranton students a chance to explore one of the many great neighborhoods in the City of Scranton, learn about places and businesses they may otherwise not learn about, and to see how they can become involved in the Scranton community.
“West Side will always be my home. I grew up in this neighborhood, my parents and family members still live and work in West Side, and I am so happy to have the opportunity to share my love for this area with University of Scranton students as a way for them to learn about and engage with our Scranton community,” said Carolyn M. Bonacci, community and civic engagement coordinator.
For more information about The Office of Community-Based Learning, please visit www.scranton.edu/cbl. For questions, please contact cbl@scranton.edu.
CBL Walk to Explore West Scranton
The President’s Business Council (PBC) will present President’s Medals to Patricia A. Byrnes Clarke ’86, P17,’19 and Thomas P. O’Brien ’86, P’19 at its 21st Annual Award Dinner on Thursday, Sept. 29, at Gotham Hall in New York City.
“We are very hopeful that this year will continue to progress in a way that will allow us to safely celebrate our honorees, the University, and our students in person in late September,” said Timothy J. Pryle ’89, executive director of the PBC. “We have two wonderful honorees whose resumés include assisting countless Scranton alumni with charting their own career success.”
Patricia A. Byrnes Clarke ’86, P’17,’19 is the global chief talent officer for the Havas Group, one of the world's largest global communications groups founded in 1835 in Paris and part of the Vivendi Group. Ms. Clarke is responsible for leading the talent and cultural strategy for the group’s 20,000+ employees in over 100 countries. During her time at Havas, she has built a talent management approach that includes initiatives on network mobility, high-potential leadership development, women’s leadership advancement, global employee engagement, employer branding, global diversity, equity and inclusion and wellness.
Prior to joining Havas, Ms. Clarke ran her own consulting business with a focus on helping private equity-backed companies develop their talent management capabilities. She also had a 20-year stint at Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), where she was chief human resources officer for 9 years and also ran global internal communications. She led D&B to industry honors as one of Fortune Magazine’s “Most Admired Companies.”
Ms. Clarke earned a bachelor’s degree in management from the University in 1986. She is a former member of the University’s Board of Trustees and a former member of the Kania School of Management Advisory Board and the Parents’ Executive Council (PEC). She is also a former chair of the PBC and created the PBC/Kania School of Management Career Coaches Program, in which she remains a mentor to current University students. She and her husband, David, reside in Atlantic Highlands, N.J., and have five children.
Thomas P. O’Brien ’86, P’19 is a co-founder and the current chief executive officer and president of SumRidge Partners, LLC, based in Jersey City, N.J. Formed in 2010, SumRidge Partners is a top-ranked electronic fixed income market maker specializing in high-yield, investment-grade corporate bonds, municipal bonds, institutional preferred securities, and emerging market bonds.
Prior to launching SumRidge Partners, Mr. O’Brien was co-head of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney’s Capital Markets division and was also a member of the firm’s management and risk committees; during his time in those roles, he was instrumental in building and developing the retail capital markets division into an industry leader. Previously, he was head of Morgan Stanley’s retail fixed income trading, which included U.S. credit, rates and municipal bond trading. He began his career with Dean Witter as an institutional MBS trader and subsequently traded various fixed income products; later, he took responsibility for risk management oversight of several product lines.
Mr. O’Brien earned a bachelor’s degree of economics/finance from the University in 1986 and a master of business administration from Fordham University. He is a former member of the University’s Board of Trustees, where he served as vice chairman, and a former chair of the PBC. Today, he acts as a mentor to current University students and frequently teaches in the fixed income securities and markets course, which he co-developed with the late Frank Corcione, Ph.D., and Murli Rajan, Ph.D., G’84. Mr. O’Brien resides in Basking Ridge, N.J., with his wife, Denise, and their three sons.
In presenting the President’s Medal, the University and the PBC recognize individuals who have achieved excellence in their fields, who have demonstrated extraordinary compassion for others, and who personify the University’s mission of Catholic and Jesuit excellence and service. Since its inaugural dinner in 2002, the PBC has generated nearly $20 million for the Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund.
Planning for this year's dinner, including an in-person Dinner Kickoff Reception in New York City, is ongoing. For more information on this year's events or the PBC, please contact Tim Pryle at (570) 941-5837 or pbc@scranton.edu.
University Announces Honorees For PBC 21st Annual Award Dinner
In recent weeks, The University of Scranton hosted an array of in-person speakers and events, including: University of Scranton alumnus Neal Thompson, class of 1987, who discussed his new book, “The First Kennedys: The Humble Roots of An American Dynasty;” Ambassador Bergdís Ellertsdóttir of Iceland, who presented the Jay Nathan, Ph.D., Visiting Scholar Lecture Series; and Rev. James L. Heft, the author of “The Future of Catholic Higher Education: The Open Circle,” who spoke as part of the University’s participation in Ignatius 500. In addition, the University held a Byzantine Catholic prayer service for Ukraine in the Byzantine Rite Chapel in Ciszek Hall and students participated in a political dialogue titled, “Freedom and Our Founding.”
In-person Lectures/Events Return to Campus
Registration has opened for Reunion 2022, which will take place June 11-12.
To register, visit this link. Visit scranton.edu/reunion for more information.
Reunion 2022 Registration Now Open
The Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) will hold a luncheon and information session discussing volunteer opportunities for people aged 50 and above Tuesday, May 24, at noon in the McDonnell Room on the DeNaples Center's fourth floor.
The event will give attendees the chance to learn firsthand about the IVC NEPA Chapter from local volunteers and Teddy Michel, region director of IVC NEPA. To register, visit this link.
The IVC provides men and women, most aged 50 or above, with opportunities to share their life skills and wisdom in service to people who are underserved. IVC provides a dynamic equilibrium of action and reflection for individuals desiring to make a difference in the lives of those needing service, those doing service, and those with whom they serve.
Ignatian Volunteer Corps To Hold Luncheon And Info Session at University May 24
The Alumni Society of The University of Scranton will hold its annual Day of Service Saturday, April 23.
Each year, alumni throughout the nation honor the University's mission by volunteering with their fellow Royals in their home regions.
Register today for the following service projects:
Massachusetts
Boston - Cradles to Crayons, 10 a.m. - noon
Click here to register
New Jersey
Hillside - Community Food Bank of New Jersey, 9 - 11 a.m.
Click here to register
New York
New York City - Cardinal Spellman Center-Meatloaf Kitchen, 7:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Click here to register
Stony Brook - Cooking for Long Island Vets,10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This event is at full capacity. Please email alumni@scranton.edu to be placed on a wait list.
Pennsylvania
Harrisburg - Central PA Food Bank, 9 a.m. - noon (THIS SITE WILL BE VOLUNTEERING ON APRIL 9)
Click here to register
Jefferson Township (NEPA) - Jefferson Elementary School, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Click here to register
Philadelphia - Cradles to Crayons, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Click here to register
Scranton - Center for Service and Social Justice Arrupe House, 10 a.m. - noon
Click here to register
Washington, D.C.
Alexandria, Virginia - Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 10 a.m. - noon
Click here to register
Connecticut - Coming Soon
Check www.scranton.edu/dayofservice for emerging details.
No service site in your region?
Volunteer in your community Saturday, April 23 and tell us about! Download and print this Scranton sign and send a picture or email us the information at alumni@scranton.edu.
University To Hold Day of Service April 23
The University has received a gift from an anonymous donor that will establish The Edward R. Leahy Award in honor of Edward R. Leahy ’68, H’01 in recognition of his extraordinary commitment to and passion for helping leaders and institutions dedicated to improving the lives and well-being of people with disabilities and other health challenges.
The Award will be given annually to a rising junior or rising senior student in the Panuska College of Professional Studies at The University of Scranton who has not only achieved academic excellence in his or her field of study, but who has also participated in related extracurricular activities and demonstrated the commitment and promise to become a model leader in the field.
The Edward R. Leahy Award will be accompanied by an annual prize of $1,000 funded from the donor’s contribution. The Award recipient will be selected by the Dean of the Panuska College of Professional Studies.
University To Establish Edward R. Leahy Award
The University will hold its annual Pre-Law Advisory Program Banquet in Brennan Hall's Rose Room Monday, May 2, at 6 p.m.
The evening includes dinner, cocktails, and plenty of opportunities for students, faculty and alumni lawyers to connect with each other. It will also feature a keynote address by the Hon. Paul B. Matey ’93, United States Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.
To register, visit this link. Attendees are encouraged to wear either business attire or business casual attire. Please RSVP by April 25.
University To Hold Annual Pre-Law Advisory Program Banquet May 2
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
James A. Noone ’66, Fairfax, Virginia, has been elected as chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Maritime Historical Society. Noone is a retired managing director of the nationwide public affairs/government relations firm Mercury and is also a retired Navy Reserve captain with 39 years of active and reserve service.
Brian J. Gavin ’00, Alexandria, Virginia, senior vice president of Communications and Marketing for Volunteers of America, has earned his CFRE certification from Certified Fundraising Executive International.
Gregory W. Carman ’15, Farmingdale, New York, is an associate in Forchelli Deegan Terrana’s Land Use & Zoning, Litigation, Cannabis and Condominium, Cooperative and HOA practice groups. As an associate, Carman represents commercial and residential clients across Long Island to secure zoning changes, subdivision approvals, site plan approvals, variances, road abandonments, and special use permits.
BIRTHS
A son, Leo Fox, to Samantha Morales ’10 and Anthony Mercado ’09, Ridgewood, New York
DEATHS
Robert M. Pron ’56, Scranton
Robert R. Newton, Ph.D. ’57, Newport, Rhode Island
Patrick G. Cawley ’60, Pittston
James J. McKane ’60, G’72, Archbald
Henry P. Burke ’64, Dunmore
Thomas P. Haggerty ’65, Scranton
John J. Gower ’66, Pen Argyl
W. Donald White ’66, San Antonio, Texas
James M. Sysko ’77, G’84, Scranton
Thomas J. Nardone ’83, Pittston
Robert F. Ruddy, Jr. ’83, Dunmore
Joyce A. Knott ’95, Scranton
Jacquelyn Cantore Pane ’00, G’01, Lexington, North Carolina
Annemarie McInerney Scully ’02, Lynbrook, New York
FRIENDS' DEATHS
Marion Moran, mother of Alison Moran ’91
Alumni Class Notes, April 2022
Join us in person or by Zoom for the 2nd Joint International Conference co-hosted by National Taiwan University and The University of Scranton, April 11-13, 2022, Register now.
April 11, 5 p.m., Loyola Science Center 133 (PNC Auditorium)
Keynote: 'Transformative Change and Uncertainty'
Dr. L.A. Paul (Yale University, Millstone Family Professor of Philosophy and Cognitive Science) (co-sponsored with the Humanities Forum)
April 12, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., DeNaples Center 405
Conference sessionsApril 13, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., DeNaples Center 405
Conference sessionsPlease register to ensure space, receive a reminder, and the Zoom link.
The conference is free and welcomes both in-person attendance or by Zoom.
Cosponsored by: National Taiwan University (Philosophy Departments and the College of Arts and Humanities) and University of Scranton (Philosophy Department, Asian Studies, The Slattery Center for the Ignatian Humanities and the Humanities Forum, The Colllege of Arts and Sciences, and The Provost's Office)
Questions? Contact:
Ann Pang-White
Email: ann.pang-white@scranton.edu
Phone: 570-941-6312
Scranton-Taiwan Joint International Symposium: 'Self and Other'
The University of Scranton held a political dialogue titled, “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?” In small mediated groups, students discussed the concept of freedom, the founding of the United States, and the role of citizens in democracy. Students then shared their experiences and listened to the perspectives of others.
Front row from left: Jenny Gonzalez, local advocate; Lia Richards-Palmiter, Ph.D., director of the Office of Diversity Efforts at Marywood University; Alejandra Marroquin, Scranton Immigrant Inclusion Committee co-chair; Teresa Grettano, Ph.D., associate professor and director of First-Year Seminars; and Julie Cohen, assistant vice president for Community Engagement and Government Affairs. Back row front left: Carolyn M. Bonacci, Community and Civic Engagement Coordinator of External Affairs; Chris Norton, chief content officer, WVIA; and Gus Fahey, president of Valley in Motion.
$content.getChild('content').textValueScranton Students Burst Political Bubbles
For the seventh annual presentation in the Jay Nathan, Ph.D. Visiting Scholar Lecture Series, The University of Scranton hosted Her Excellency, Ambassador Bergdís Ellertsdóttir of Iceland. She presented a lecture titled, “Iceland: History, Culture, Environment.” After the presentation and panel discussion, Eva Ingolfsdóttir, a classical Icelandic violinist, gave a performance to demonstrate Icelandic culture through music. From left: Eva Ingolfsdottir, classical violinist; Jay Nathan, Ph.D.; Iceland Ambassador Bergdis Ellertsdottir; Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton; Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., dean of the University's College of Arts and Sciences; and George J. Aulisio, dean of the Weinberg Memorial Library at the University.
The lecture was sponsored by the Weinberg Memorial Library.
$content.getChild('content').textValueIcelandic Culture Discussed at Nathan Lecture
The University of Scranton hosted alumnus Neal Thompson ’87 for a discussion and book signing for his latest book, “The First Kennedys: The Humble Roots of An American Dynasty.” The book details the Kennedy family’s flight from the Ireland potato famine and their later actualization of the American Dream.
The event was cosponsored by The Gail and Francis Slattery Center for the Ignatian Humanities and the History Department.
$content.getChild('content').textValueBook Discussion and Signing with Scranton Alumnus
The Schemel Forum presents Jill Dougherty, CNN’s Moscow Bureau Chief for almost a decade, now an adjunct professor at Georgetown University and CNN on-air contributor.
During the Cold War, the U.S.S.R. tried to convince the world that communism was the future of humankind. The U.S. tried to convince the world that democracy and capitalism gave people a better life. Today, propagandists still try to convince but, more and more, try to confuse - to overwhelm their target audiences with a firehose of mis- and disinformation.
Jill Dougherty, Russian history expert, is currently teaching a course in 'Information Wars' at Georgetown University, and explores the new paradigm, what it means for Russia, and what it could mean for America.
This event will be held in person at Edward Leahy Hall, Kane Forum, 235 • Noon to 1:30 p.m., and via Zoom. A remote link will be emailed for Zoom participants
Please contact alicen.morrison@scranton.edu to register.
Free to University Staff, Students, & Faculty
Schemel Forum: Russia and the Post-truth Society
Recognized globally as a leading expert on climate change, climatologist and geophysicist Michael E. Mann, Ph.D., will discuss his new book “The New Climate War: The Fight to Take Back Our Planet” at The University of Scranton on April 21. The lecture, offered free of charge, begins at 7:30 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center.
The author of five books on climate change, Dr. Mann’s research has been published in more than 200 peer-reviewed and edited publications. He was a lead author on the Observed Climate Variability and Change chapter of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Third Scientific Assessment Report in 2001 and was organizing committee chair for the National Academy of Sciences Frontiers of Science in 2003. He contributed, with other IPCC authors, to the award of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize. He was named to the Bloomberg News list of 50 Most Influential People in 2013, Academic’s Ten Most Influential Earth Scientists list in 2020, and, in 2002, was named by Scientific American as one of 50 leading visionaries in science and technology, among dozens of other honors and awards.
Dr. Mann is the Distinguished Professor of Atmospheric Science at Pennsylvania State University, with joint appointments in the Department of Geosciences and the Earth and Environmental Systems Institute. He is also director of the Penn State Earth System Science Center. He is the co-founder of the award-winning website RealClimate.org.
Dr. Mann’s latest book, “The New Climate War: The Fight to Take Back Our Planet,” was nominated among the 15 Best Science and Environment Books of 2021 by The Times (UK) and nominated for the Business Book of the Year 2021 by Financial Times (runner-up). His book explores the intricacies of the struggle to conquer the disinformation campaigns of the fossil fuel industry and their intentional division of modern climate advocates. Dr. Mann demonstrates that these tactical efforts by fossil fuel producers currently render the work of climate advocates ineffective and divert attention from necessary sweeping environmental policy actions. Along with these topics, Dr. Mann will discuss inadequate solutions as well as the responses to the climate crisis he deems best.
Dr. Mann earned his bachelor’s degree in physics and applied mathematics from the University of California at Berkeley; and his master’s degree in physics and Ph.D. in geology and geophysics from Yale University.
Dr. Mann’s research and presentation echo the Jesuit teaching and commitment to care for our common home. Pope Francis broadcasts the same message, highlighting in his encyclical that “the Creator does not abandon us” and that, as humans, we have a duty to protect the planet because “humanity still has the ability to work together in building our common home” (Laudato Si’ 13).
Presented as part of The University of Scranton’s Earth Day events this year, the lecture and other related events focus on the theme “we are all connected,” inspired by Pope Francis’ famous encyclical On Care for Our Common Home (Laudato Si’).
The lecture is presented by the University’s Jesuit Center and Office of Sustainability. Health and safety protocols that are in effect on April 21 as outlined in the Royals Back Together plan must be followed by those in attendance.
For more information about the lecture, email mark.murphy@scranton.edu or call call 570-941-6267.Climate Change Expert Michael Mann to Speak April 21
Andrew Schotter, professor of economics at New York University and the director of the Center for Experimental Social Science, will be the speaker at the 2022 Spring Henry George Seminar on April 20 from 4 to 5:15 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center. Schotter, whose areas of research interests include economic theory, game theory, and especially experimental economics, will give a talk entitled, “Social Learning and the Evolution of Conventions of Behavior.” The lecture is free of charge to University students, faculty and staff and members of the greater Scranton community.
Dr. Schotter has published four books: “The Foundations of Positive and Normative Economics: A Handbook,” “Microeconomics: A Modern Approach,” “The Economic Theory of Social Institutions” and “Free Market Economics: A Critical Appraisal,” and more than 90 articles in leading economics journals including the European Economic Review, Economic Inquiry, Games and Economic Behavior, the Journal of Public Economic, and the American Economic Review.
He has been a consultant for the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), AT&T and the New York Stock Exchange, an economic theory fellow with the Society for Advancement of Economic Theory and a visiting scholar at the Russell Sage Foundation. He received the Kenan Enterprise Award from the William R. Kenan Jr. Charitable Trust, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
Considered the preeminent public lecture series on economics in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Henry George Lecture Series is presented by the University’s Economics and Finance Department and the campus chapter of Omicron Delta Epsilon, an international honor society for economics. The lecture series is named in honor of the 19th-century American economist and social reformer and is supported financially by a grant from the Robert Schalkenbach Foundation.
The University of Scranton health and safety protocols in place on April 20 outlined in the Royals Back Together plan must be followed by conference attendees.
For more information about the Henry George Spring Seminar, call 570-941-4048 or email janice.mecadon@scranton.edu.
Spring Henry George Lecture Set for April 20
Looking ahead to summer? Scranton’s on-campus and online summer courses, at a significantly reduced tuition rate, can help students fulfill a requirement or just get ahead. This summer, the reduced per credit rate for undergraduate courses is $650.
The University offers a wide selection of courses in all academic programs, many of which are online. Students can browse courses here.
During the summer sessions, courses for credit are available to Scranton students and visiting students from another college or university at the graduate and undergraduate levels. (Please note that students enrolled at another college or university will need approval from the home college for all courses to be taken at The University of Scranton.)
High school students can apply to the High School Scholars program if they wish to take classes. There is an information session on April 19 at 6 p.m.
The summer sessions give students the opportunity to pursue new interests or fulfill course requirements, on-campus or off.
The Basics
- 2022 Dates: Summer I: May 31 - June 27; Summer II: July 5 - Aug. 1
- Tuition Rate: $650 per credit, a substantial per credit discount
- Search for Courses
Information on Summer Internships:
Students, if you're considering a summer internship you should note that:
- You can apply for internships for credit.
- Earn three credits while paying for only one (a six-credit internship would only be charged as two credits).
- For-credit internships are arranged through your major and must be approved before the summer term starts. Credits count either toward the major or Free Electives, depending upon your major.
- No matter where the credits count or if the internship is for credit or not, internships are perhaps the most valuable experience you can have as you blend what is taught in the classroom with real-world experience sometimes leading to job offers upon graduation.
- If you have a formal offer for an unpaid summer internship, you can apply via the Royal Experience Internship Program website. Applications are now open and will close on May 6. You can receive a stipend of up to $4,000.
Housing and employment options are available for current students who wish to remain on campus for the summer. The Office of Conference and Events also hires students each year as Summer Conference Assistants.
Please contact your advisor/advising center with any questions about specific courses or registration.
Find everything you need to get started with a Summer course at Scranton, here: scranton.edu/summer.
Register for a Summer 2022 Course Today
As a result of the commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students demonstrated through The University of Scranton’s THR1VE programming, Scranton was selected to join the national 2022-23 First-gen Forward cohort. The cohort is sponsored by The Center for First-generation Student Success, which is an initiative of the Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and The Suder Foundation.
Colleges selected to the First-gen Forward program receive professional development, community-building experiences and have access to research and other resources of the Center to further improve programming for first-generation college students.
“Through the application process, it was evident that The University of Scranton is not only taking steps to serve first-generation students but is prepared to make a long-term commitment and employ strategies that foster an environment of success for this important population,” said Dr. Sarah E. Whitley, assistant vice president, Center for First-generation Student Success. “First-gen Forward now recognizes and supports nearly 300 diverse institutions across four cohorts, all of which continue to lead the nation through their commitment to first-generation student success.”
First-generation (first-gen) college students are the first in their family to attend a four-year college or university. At Scranton, first-gen students make up 22 percent of the undergraduate student population. In 2019, the University launched the THR1VE program in an effort to meet the diverse needs of first-gen students and foster their success at Scranton.
According to Shannon Fennie Murphy, assistant dean of students who oversees the University’s first-gen programming, THR1VE focuses on three pillars: understanding and celebrating the first-generation identity; connecting students to resources; and celebrating students’ successes. Programming was initially based on a first-generation needs assessment conducted in late 2018 and is further guided by current needs identified through a student advisory council.
THR1VE programming begins at orientation and continues throughout matriculation. Programming includes the GU1DE peer mentoring program, which pairs first-year first-gen students with upper division first-generation volunteer mentors; a community awareness component that identifies staff and faculty members who were also first-gen college students; and participation in the National First-Generation College Student Day, among numerous other initiatives.
“The THR1VE monthly newsletter scaffolds student resources based on the time of the academic year and the class year of the student,” said Murphy Fennie. “For example, the October newsletters focus on tutoring services, imposter syndrome, and wellness resources for first-year and sophomore students, and on career development, internships and financial wellness for juniors and seniors. We find providing students with appropriate resources just prior to them needing the information reduces stress and allows students to navigate the systems independently.”
Murphy Fennie noted there are also many opportunities for involvement in THR1VE for faculty and staff who are first generation college students themselves or want to be advocates for current first generation students at Scranton. Faculty and staff members interested in becoming involved with the THR1VE program can complete this online survey.
Murphy Fennie wrote an article about THR1VE programming in the January 2022 issue Connections, published by the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities.
The Center for First-generation Student Success is the premier source of evidence-based practices, professional development and knowledge creation for the higher education community to advance the success of first-generation students. Based in Washington, DC, the Center offers an outlet for sharing cutting-edge research and current media conversations, opportunities for engagement through online learning, conferences and events, as well as access to numerous programs and services intended to improve first-generation initiatives across higher education.
The Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, formerly called the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), is a network of 15,000 professionals and 1,200 institutions across the globe.
Scranton Joins National Cohort for Advancing First-Gen Students
March
View March Listing Page
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, announced Shannon A. Zottola has been named vice president for enrollment management, effective July 1, 2022. Zottola currently serves as vice president and dean for enrollment management and marketing at Ursinus College. At Ursinus, she serves on several institutional committees and task forces, and is a member of the Senior Leadership Team.
“Ms. Zottola has over seventeen years of leadership experience in enrollment management. She is strongly committed to Catholic and Jesuit education that is grounded in the liberal arts and centered around students,” said Father Marina in an announcement to the University community regarding the position. “Since beginning her service at Ursinus in 2018, she led the school’s effort to successfully recruit three of the largest, most diverse and academically talented classes in the school’s 152-year history. Ms. Zottola also created a strategic enrollment management plan that is now considered a ‘best practice’ among her peers in higher education.”
The vice president of enrollment management is a member of the President’s Cabinet and serves as Scranton’s chief enrollment officer. The vice president will contribute to a well-established division and strong foundation by providing strategic and innovative leadership, in alignment with the University’s mission and strategic priorities, for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral admissions, as well as financial aid, while serving as a resource for academic program planning and participating in the University’s strategic financial and enrollment planning processes, among other responsibilities.
Zottola’s work in admissions and marketing has won numerous Council for Advancement and Support of Education and College and University Public Relations Association of Pennsylvania awards. In addition, she has presented at both the national and regional level on various topics regarding admission, enrollment and leadership.
Prior to her service at Ursinus, which began in 2018, Zottola held several positions in admissions at Cabrini University (College) from 2011 to 2018, including serving as the assistant vice president for enrollment management and director of undergraduate admissions. From 2005 to 2013, she served at Marywood University in several capacities, including as the assistant director of retention and advising. She also served as a faculty fellow at Cabrini and as an instructor at Marywood.
Zottola is a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling, the Pennsylvania Association for College Admission Counseling and the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers.
A native of Scranton, Zottola earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Pittsburgh.
Shannon A. Zottola Named Vice President
Communication students were interviewed recently by WNEP about engaging with videos from the Ukrainian war zone on TikTok for "Watching the war unfold on TikTok: What's fact and what's fiction?"
"These up close, personal accounts of people's homes being blown up by missiles or having to evacuate to neighboring countries. It's putting a more personal and human touch onto the conflict," said student Julia Gavigan.
Watch the piece, here.
Communication Students Weigh in on Spotting Fake TikToks
We sat down with accounting students Hanna Guarnuccio '22 and Madelyn Ronan '24 to ask them about their experience at The University of Scranton. Here's how it went.
VIDEO: Students Talk Accounting
Several of The University of Scranton’s graduate programs ranked among the best in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 edition of “Best Graduate Schools.”
Scranton’s MBA Specialty in accounting ranked No. 14 in the nation, tying with Harvard University, Arizona State University and Ohio State University in the U.S. News full-time MBA program ranking. Scranton’s MBA specialty programs in business analytics ranked No. 29 and finance ranked No. 34 in America in the ranking published by U.S. News online March 29.
In addition to the program specialty rankings, Scranton’s graduate program in nursing ranked No. 95 and its part-time MBA program ranked No. 100 out of all such programs nationally.
For the graduate school rankings, U.S. News uses data gathered by surveys of college faculty and administrators, and for nursing programs, from professionals working in health care, to assess the quality of programs. U.S. News also uses statistical data such as faculty student ratios and student test scores. The U.S. News ranking of the Best Graduate Schools Ranking by MBA Specialties is based solely on ratings by business school deans and directors of AACSB-accredited MBA programs.
The University’s graduate-level business programs include a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Master of Accountancy (MAcc), Master of Science in Finance (MSF). Master of Science in Business Analytics and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in general management or with a specialization in accounting, business analytics, finance, healthcare management, international business, management information systems, marketing and operations management. The University also offers combined/accelerated bachelor’s and master’s level programs including accounting BS/MBA, operations management BS/MBA, finance BS/MBA, management BS/MBA, and College of Arts and Sciences Bachelor’s/MBA, and other programs.
Graduate nursing degrees offered by Scranton include Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN, and post-master’s certificate; Executive Nursing Leadership, M.S.N; and Nurse Anesthesia, DNP, and an accelerated MSN degree program.
All of the University’s graduate programs hold the highest national accreditation within each discipline, including accreditation by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) for business and accreditation by The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for nursing and Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) for nurse anesthesia.
Earlier this year, U.S. News’ “Best Online Programs” publication ranked the University’s online master’s degree programs in business (excluding MBA) at No. 55 and its online MBA program at No. 98 in the nation. U.S. News also ranked Scranton at No. 65 in the country for “Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans.”
In other rankings published by U.S. News, Scranton has been ranked among the top 10 “Best Regional Universities in the North” for 28 consecutive years. Scranton is ranked No. 5 in the 2022 edition of the guidebook. U.S. News also ranked Scranton No. 14 in its category for “Best Undergraduate Teaching.”
Graduate Programs Top U.S. News National Rankings
Inspired by Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical titled “On Care for Our Common Home,” The University of Scranton’s Sustainability Office has selected the theme “We Are All Connected” for their Spring sustainability initiative. To celebrate this theme, especially as Earth Day approaches, the Sustainability Office will host several events for students, faculty and staff as well as guests from the greater Scranton community.
Area students in grades 5-12 may participate in the University’s Earth Day Essay Contest. Submissions will be accepted through April 4. This year’s theme is “We Are All Connected.” For submission rules and details, visit: https://www.scranton.edu/sustainability/docs/earth-week-2022/earthday-2022-essay-rules.pdf.
Winners of the essay contest will be announced at the Evening of Environmental on Wednesday, April 20, in the Atrium of the Loyola Science Center on campus. The event takes place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and features interactive science experiments run by University students. The event will also include a display of the essays submitted. Finalists will receive Earth Day medals and certificates at a ceremony.
On the following day, April 21, the University will host a lecture by renowned American climatologist and geophysicist Michael Mann, Ph.D., author of “The New Climate War: The Fight to Take Back Our Planet.” Dr. Mann is the Distinguished Professor of Atmospheric Science at Pennsylvania State University, with joint appointments in the Department of Geosciences and the Earth and Environmental Systems Institute. He is also director of the Penn State Earth System Science Center. He is the author of five books on climate change, as well as more than 200 peer-reviewed and edited publications, numerous op-eds and commentaries. The lecture begins at 7:30 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center on campus.
The final Earth Day event for the month of April will be an art show address on April 25 by Laura Kern, an artist from rural Pennsylvania who uses her sculptures to emphasize the connection between humans and the environment, as well as to highlight prominent environmental and societal issues. Kern will present her address in tthe Heritage Room of the Weinberg Memorial Library. The event runs from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Other events open to University students, faculty and staff include an Environmental Art Show on the fifth floor of the Weinberg Memorial Library from April 19 to April 26; an Earth Day Fair in the lobby of the Loyola Science Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on April 19; an Environmentally-Friendly Tie-Dye event, taking place on the Dionne Campus Green at 5 p.m. on April 20; and a kayaking trip on the Susquehanna River on May 7.
Several related events also took place in March, including a screening of “The Human Element,” a film in which photographer James Balog uses his camera to document and uncover how environmental change affects the lives of Americans each day. The University also hosted a celebration of World Water Day on March 22.
All of these events are sponsored by the University’s Sustainability Office with the support of the Jesuit Center, the Kania School of Management, the Multicultural Center, the environmental studies concentration and major, the Weinberg Memorial Library and the Society for Sustainability and Conservation student organization.
University Hosts Multiple Earth Day Events in April
The University of Scranton baseball and women's lacrosse teams both capped off undefeated weeks for the Royals as baseball went 3-0 including a doubleheader sweep of Moravian and women's lacrosse went 2-0 with victories over Rowan and Elizabethtown.
For more on those teams and the rest of the week that was in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Baseball, Women's Lacrosse Cap Off Unbeaten Weeks
CHEW has another challenge for you! The Center for Health Education - Employee Wellness Program is excited to introduce the Hydration Challenge for the campus community beginning April 4.
The registration deadline is March 31.
Want to continue to work on small habits that help boost your overall well-being? Consider joining CHEW's Hydration Challenge that kicks off April 4th to be challenged to drink more water throughout the month of April. Registration details are below.
Register Here or scan the code on the poster below.
The first 750 to register earn a FREE Scranton Water Bottle
Hydration Challenge: Register Now!
On the weekend of Apr. 9-10, The University of Scranton will offer a series of pysanka workshops to teach the art of decorating Ukrainian Easter eggs with traditional folk designs using a wax-resist method. Come, gather with us to write a pysanka in support of Ukraine. One hundred percent of the workshop fee will be donated to humanitarian aid in Ukraine via World Central Kitchen. Participants will be taught how to write pysanky, or Ukrainian Easter eggs. All materials will be provided, and each participant will take home their own, blown-out pysanka.
Four pysanka workshops will be offered as follows: on Saturday, April 9, 2022, at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., and again on Sunday, April 10, 2022, at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. All workshops will take place in the Smurfit Arts Center, Scranton, PA 18510 on the corners of Vine St. and Madison Ave. Masks are required. Each workshop is limited to 10 people and children must be accompanied by an adult. The workshop cost is $25, payable by cash or check. Registration is required at: surveymonkey.com/r/PysankaApril2022
Workshops will be led by Dr. Amelia Randich, Assistant Professor of Biology at The University of Scranton. Dr. Randich is a fourth-generation Ukrainian-American, and this art has been passed down through the women in her family. She has been writing pysanky for over 30 years and teaches pysankarsvo at various retreats in the US.
“The tradition of pysankarsvo has been handed down through the women in my family and I’m tremendously proud to continue the art. I’ve been writing pysanky with my mother since before I can remember. Easter on my mom’s side has always been a treasured holiday, and the days of Lent before it are a special season for writing pysanky. I now write pysanky year-round and have the honor of having some of my pysanky in the Pysanka Museum in Kolomyya, Ukraine,” said Dr. Randich.
Dr. Randich has a dedicated website, “Saving the World One Egg at Time,” to illustrate her work in pysanka along with the meaning and importance of their creation. The act of creating is vital.
“Pysanky have always been prayers for peace and prosperity in both pre-Christian and Christian times. It is said that as long as pysanky are being written somewhere in the world, the balance between good and evil is maintained. This Lent they are particularly evocative as Ukraine faces atrocities from Russian forces.” said Dr. Randich.
To learn more about Dr. Randich and her work creating and teaching the art of pysanka, please visit https://pysankypower.wordpress.com/
You can also view Dr. Randich’s work and follow her on social media on Facebook: @pysankypower & Instagram: @AmeliaRandich.
These workshops are offered by The University of Scranton and are co-sponsored by the Hope Horn Gallery and the Office of Community and Government Relations.
“These workshops are a wonderful way for university and Scranton community members to come together, learn about Ukrainian culture and art, and create something beautiful in a way that offers solidarity during this time of violence, conflict and human suffering in Ukraine. The proceeds will provide humanitarian relief at a critical time when we continue to pray for peace,” said Julie Schumacher Cohen, associate vice president of Community Engagement & Government Affairs at The University of Scranton.
For questions, please contact community@scranton.edu.
April Pysanka Workshops To Benefit Humanitarian Relief to Ukraine
On Tuesday, March 22, ARAMARK, the Office of Sustainability, Society for Conservation and Sustainability and the Multicultural Center celebrated our favorite natural resource — water!
World Water Day commemorates freshwater and brings awareness to the 33 percent of the world’s population that lacks access to safe drinking water. The reality that water is a limited resource is often unknown or neglected. However, with only 3 percent of the world’s water being freshwater, and a mere 1 percent considered drinkable, the global water crisis is one that deserves more recognition when tackling sustainable development.
The Office of Sustainability tested students' knowledge of water with questions like how much is the ocean expected to rise in the next 25 years? What percentage of recent natural disasters have been water-related? Every 1 dollar invested in safe water yields how much economic return? The answers are 1 foot, 74 percent and $6.80, accordingly. If you got the right answer, you were able to pick from prizes like Gertrude Hawk chocolate and reusable Starbucks cups. We raised awareness with nearly 200 students, many of whom admitted they had not known the severity of the world water crisis.
ARAMARK compared pairs of different crops and livestock, asking which of the pair required more water. If you didn't get a chance to test your knowledge, here are a few examples — chocolate or vanilla, broccoli or asparagus, and chicken or beef? The answers are vanilla, asparagus, and beef! Those who participated got a reusable water bottle!
The University of Scranton demonstrated its commitment to water conservation. A few years ago, the University installed low-flow toilets. Five hundred fifty toilets across campus were replaced with these water-conserving models, which saves 7.5 million gallons per year! Although World Water Day has passed, being mindful of your water usage is a perfect way to implement sustainable practices for Earth Month. Some ways to do this are:
- Decreasing consumption of unnecessary goods. 1/3 of our water consumption comes from clothing and electronics
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Use a reusable water bottle. One plastic water bottle takes 1.4 gallons of water to produce
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Eat less meat and animal products. The agricultural industry is the leading cause of water pollution and degradation
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Buy local, organic produce. Industrialized agriculture uses approximately 3 times more water than crops require, which wastes between 50-80 percent of irrigation water through leaks, runoff, and evaporation
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Check your water pipes for leaks. We unknowingly lose approximately 20-50 percent through pipe leakage and stopping the leakage could also save 10 percent on our water bills
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Supporting organizations that are tackling the world’s water issue. Some good ones are Charity: Water, Drop in the Bucket, Thirst Project, and Splash.
University Celebrates World Water Day
The University of Scranton will host the Inaugural Conference on Ethics and Excellence in Public Service for public officials, leaders of nonprofit organizations and students on April 9 on campus. The half-day, in-person conference begins at 8 a.m. with registration and refreshments and will take place on the fifth floor of Brennan Hall.
The annual conference is a key initiative of the University’s recently launched Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service (CEEPS) with the goal of helping to provide a foundation for ethical governance in Northeastern Pennsylvania by developing and nurturing a community of scholars, public officials and citizens dedicated to improving and protecting democracy at the state and local level.
“We expect that the conference will help connect state and local governing officials to one another and make them aware of the opportunities and training offered by the Center,” said JoyAnna Hopper, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science and co-director of CEEPS. “Additionally, we expect that the Conference will offer scholars interested in promoting and protecting democracy through the study of ethics at the state- and local-level an opportunity to present and share research. That research can be disseminated through the Center and shared with community members and state and local governments.”
Dr. Hopper also sees the conference as a way to introduce University students to issues concerning ethics and government effectiveness and further engage them in career opportunities in the public and government service sector. University students will participate in a panel discussion about their efforts in 2020 to increase voter registration among young adults.
Additional topics covered in panel discussions at the conference include “Local Government Ethics Boards and Codes;” “Grant writing: Best Practices for Local Governments;” and “Legislative Pay, Per Diems, and Ethics.”
The conference will conclude with a luncheon keynote address by author Craig Wheeland, Ph.D., a noted scholar in the area of public administration and senior vice president for academics and professor of public administration at Villanova University. Dr. Wheeland has published numerous articles and has also published two books on the topics of local government and urban politics. His research on city management has received external funding from organizations such as the American Political Science Association.
Additional information and a schedule of speakers can be seen on the Conference on Ethics and Excellence in Public Service webpage.
Registration is required to attend and fees vary for the conference. Reservations and additional information is also available online. A $15 registration fee includes all meals and materials for the day. If you are unable to pay the $15 registration fee, there is an option on the registration form that will allow you to register and attend without paying the fee. The conference is free for students.
The University of Scranton health and safety protocols in place on April 9 outlined in the Royals Back Together plan must be followed by conference attendees.
For additional information, email ceeps@scranton.edu or contact Sharon Olechna, administrative assistant for the Political Science Department, at 570-941-6326 or by email at sharon.olechna@scranton.edu.
CEEPS to Host Inaugural Conference April 9
Retired Col. Douglas H. Wheelock, a NASA astronaut, will be speaking in the Moskovitz Theater on April 6 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
This event is free and open to the public. Please note, the event is following NASA’s COVID protocols, so masking is required and space is limited. Updates to this policy will be communicated to registered attendees by e-mail.
Wheelock, who accumulated more than 178 days in space, flew on STS-120 in 2007. In 2010, he served as a flight engineer for Expedition 24 and commander for Expedition 25 during which he conducted three unplanned spacewalks to replace a faulty ammonia pump module. The New York native holds a bachelor’s in applied science and engineering from the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York, and a master’s in aerospace engineering from Georgia Tech in Atlanta, Georgia. He has earned a very lengthy list of awards including a Bronze Star and the NASA Superior Accomplishment Award.
The event is sponsored by The Mugas Amateur Radio Club, organized in 1975 in the spirit of Father Josef Murgas who pioneered the very first overland wireless voice transmission in 1905 between Wilkes-Barre and Scranton; W3USR, the University of Scranton Amateur Radio Club; and the University’s Department of Physics and Engineering.
The University is the lead institution for the Ham Radio Science Citizen Investigation (HamSCI) project, an international citizen-science project that brings together professional scientists and amateur radio operators for mutual benefit, and has been awarded over $2.5 million in National Science Foundation and NASA Funding since 2019 for HamSCI and Space Science-related projects. The project, led by Scranton physics and electrical engineering professor Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., is an officially recognized NASA Citizen Science project. Frissell, a NASA grant recipient, recently published findings of traveling ionospheric disturbances in the upper atmosphere for the first time, demonstrating the effects of waves on radio communications
For further information, click here and to register click here.
Astronaut on Campus: Douglas H. Wheelock Speaking on April 6
Join The University of Scranton’s Multicultural Coalition for Alumni and Students for their Then & Now event as they connect virtually with a panel of alumni on Zoom, Monday, March 28 at 7 p.m.
Zoom ID: 984 4336 0956
Guest speakers include:
- Ihyisha Simma ’08, Major: Accounting, Now: Tax Director
- Leandra Hylton ’18, Major: Occupational Therapy, Now: Occupational Therapist
- Kyle Gleaves ’14, Major: Biology, Now: Physician
- Rachel Chow ’13, Major: Theology/ Religious Studies, Now: Salesforce Solution Lead
- Sam Soarer ’18, Major: Computer Science, Now: Senior Software Engineer
- Martine Baptiste-Blayton ’08, Major: Psychology, Now: System Director
- Jackie Rincon ’08 Major: Elementary Education, Now: Executive Communications Specialist
- Jay Tioleco ’07, Major: Communication/History, Now: Attorney at Law
- Aba Amon-Kwafo '20, Major: Neuroscience, Now: Neurophysiology Technologist
- Kendrick Monestime ’12: Major: Exercise Science & Sport, Now: Solutions Consultant
- Gabriela ’20, Major: Pre-Med, Now: Medical Student
- Ademolaa Giwa ’12, ’15, Major: Exercise Science, Now: Allied Health Educator
- Deniya Thompson ’20, Major: Biology/ Pre-Med, Now: Admissions Counselor
Register Now
Multicultural Coalition for Alumni and Students: Then and Now
This week's senior spotlight is with Kayla C. Abcede '22, Garwood, New Jersey, a business analytics major.
What are your career goals?
I recently accepted a job offer from Chubb Insurance in their Chubb Associate - Personal Risk Services. In a few years I plan on studying for my CPCU (Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter) and continuing to learn more about insurance underwriting.
Tell us about a professional/service/internship experience you had.
I was a Marketing and Sales intern for ComServe Systems in Moosic, Pennsylvania during the summer. My most recent internship was Commercial Underwriting for Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurances in Wilkes Barre, which I did during the semester which helped me learn about insurance and how underwriting works in the process.
What is a piece of advice you would give to a first-year student?
The one piece of advice I would give is it is okay to come in as undecided. I went in as undecided and changed my major many times from engineering management to thinking I wanted to do accounting to thinking about economics before finally deciding business analytics was my calling. I would also take advantage of reaching out to your professors and Scranton alumni because they are always willing to help when it comes to finding internships or even jobs.
What will you miss most about Scranton?
I will miss seeing the familiar faces on campus and being within walking distance of all my friends. But I will also miss the raspberry chicken from the third floor (of DeNaples), which is one of my all-time favorites.
Senior Spotlight: Kayla C. Abcede '22
The Institutional Research Office is administering the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) to University of Scranton freshmen and seniors during spring 2022. The University has administered this widely-used survey eight times since 2005 and considers it to be one of the most useful ways to gauge students’ engagement and satisfaction with their college experience.
Over 500 academic institutions participate in the NSSE annually, and Scranton compares its results with peer institutions to see how we rank. Please click here to view the results of the prior year’s reports:
An invitation to freshmen and seniors to participate in the survey was sent on March 27, and several email reminders will be sent through April. All students who complete the survey by April 30 will be entered into a drawing to win one of two (2) Royal Card deposits, each worth $250 (one for the freshman class and one for the senior class).
National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE)
Legendary musician and composer Dr. Wycliffe Gordon, H ’06, will return to The University of Scranton for two upcoming concerts presented by Performance Music.
On Wednesday, April 6, Gordon will perform with The University of Scranton Singers and Scranton Brass Orchestra at the 14th Annual Gene Yevich Memorial Concert. Then, the following night, Thursday, April 7, Gordon will perform a second concert with The University of Scranton Jazz Band. Both performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue.
Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis. All audience members are required to wear a higher-grade mask (N95, KN95, KF94 or double masking) at all times. Please check Performance Music’s website within 24 hours of the recital for the most current information on additional required audience COVID-19 mitigation measures (e.g., masking, vaccination, distancing, etc.).
At the concerts, Gordon and the ensembles will perform a wide variety of selections. Programming on the April 6 concert will feature Gordon as a soloist on trombone, trumpet and singing with the choir and brass orchestra, and will include music ranging from popular selections from The Great American Songbook and spirituals to O Fortuna from Orff’s “Carmina Burana” and Va Pensiero from Verdi’s “Nabucco.”
Programming on the April 7th concert with the Jazz Band will feature Gordon again both playing and singing, and a number of the works performed will be Gordon’s own acclaimed big band compositions, according to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga.
The recipient of an honorary doctorate from the University and commencement speaker in 2006, Gordon’s long friendship with Boga has also become a close relationship with the University. He’s performed and taught at the University on many occasions with almost every one of the student wind and choral ensembles, and has composed a number of new works for the university ensembles.
“Wycliffe Gordon is my single favorite musician – he’s my musical hero,” Boga said. “He’s bigger than life. It’s like what Itzhak Perlman is to violin and Pavarotti was to voice, Wycliffe is to trombone. And I don’t know any musician in the world as generous with their time and talent. To me, he’s the closest thing we have to Louis Armstrong still with us.”
A genuine virtuoso on the trombone, Gordon was recently named “Trombonist of the Year” for the 14th time by the Jazz Journalists Association, while the Downbeat Critics Poll has named him “Best Trombone” on six occasions.
A former member of the Wynton Marsalis Septet and The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Gordon has received numerous other accolades, including the Louie Award for his dedication and commitment to the music of Louis Armstrong; the International Trombone Association Award; the Satchmo Award from the Sarasota Jazz Club; the Louis Armstrong Memorial Prize from the Swing Jazz Culture Foundation; Artist of the Year from the Augusta Arts Council; and the ASCAP Foundation’s Vanguard Award, among many, many others.
Gordon’s compositions have been performed throughout the world, he has been a featured guest artist on television, film, and every other broadcast medium, is one of the nation’s most in-demand music educators, and also serves as director of Jazz Studies at Augusta University in Augusta, Georgia.
Sponsored by former Scranton Mayor David Wenzel and his wife, Janet, the April 6th Yevich Memorial Concert is a celebration of the life of former Scranton Fire Chief Gene Yevich, Boga’s late father. Besides his career as a fireman, Yevich, who passed away in 2005, was also a highly accomplished local musician. A multi-instrumentalist known for his virtuosity on the accordion, he was a longtime member of the bands the Novelaires and the Mediterranean Sounds, who were regulars at Italian festivals in the Scranton area and New York City.
Yevich was married for almost 50 years to the former Julia Pucher, with whom he had three children, Boga and University graduates Michael Yevich and Cynthia Yevich. His grandchildren are Joseph Boga, trumpeter with the legendary band Vince Giordano and The Nighthawks, who often performs and leads clinics and masterclasses at the University, and Magdalyn Boga, who earned a master’s degree from the University and is a member of its history faculty, and is also an operatic soprano.
For further information on the concerts, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more information on Gordon, visit wycliffegordon.com.
Wycliffe Gordon to Perform April 6 and 7
Meet Ashley Stampone, CPA, an assistant professor of accounting and alumnus of the University. Here, she talks about her blockchain research and how important faculty support was to her as a student, which has come full circle now that she is a faculty member.
VIDEO: Faculty Spotlight: Ashley Stampone, CPA
The Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar presents Fredrik Logevall, Ph.D., Laurence D. Belfer Professor of International Affairs, Harvard University, for his talk, "A New Cold War? How To Think About the Struggle in Ukraine."
What are the geopolitical implications of the war in Ukraine? And what does the struggle tell us about the role of individual leaders in shaping history? Join us a Harvard historian Fredrik Logevall considers the crisis and its meaning.
March 24, Brennan Hall, Rose Room, 509 • Noon to 1:30 p.m.; the remote link will be emailed
To register, please contact Alicen.Morrison@scranton.edu
Free to University of Scranton Staff, Students, Faculty/ $10 remote only/ $25 in-person
A New Cold War? How To Think About the Struggle in Ukraine
Learn about the world's largest folk festival in Germany, attended by more than six million people from around the world every year! Oktoberfest is an important part of Bavarian culture, featuring traditional clothing, music, and a wide variety of traditional foods. Visitors enjoy numerous attractions, such as amusement rides and games.
Fabian Postert, German Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant from Goettingen, Germany, will share what makes Oktoberfest so popular. Enjoy pretzels and root beer and learn more about what makes the Oktoberfest so popular around the world.
Leahy 235 (Kane Forum)
Monday, April 11
7:00-8:00 p.m.
Contact Hannah Jackson at Hannah.jackson@scranton.edu or 570-941-4711 for more information.
Oktoberfest Presented by World Languages and Cultures
The Center for Health Education & Wellness- Employee Wellness Program would like to invite staff and faculty to a Lunch & Learn on Resilience & Mindfulness for staff and faculty on Wednesday, March 30 at 12:15 p.m.
Phil Sallavanti, a certified Mindfulness Meditation instructor and Stephanie Adamec, Director of CHEW will help present on the importance of Mindfulness and the Building Blocks of Resilience. A complimentary lunch in the Fresh Food Company (3rd Floor) will follow the presentation.
Register Here or scan the poster barcode below.
Employee Wellness Lunch and Learn
The University of Scranton baseball and softball teams both traveled south last week for their respective program's annual Spring Break trips. Baseball went 4-0 in Myrtle Beach, while softball finished off the Florida trip with a sweep of Wisconsin-Lutheran and Carthage.
For more on those games and the week that was in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Baseball, Softball Find Success During Myrtle Beach and Florida Trips
On Monday, Mar. 28 at 5 p.m., The University of Scranton’s Hope Horn Gallery is hosting an artist lecture “Mapping Shinnecock: Exploring Indigenous Identity, Culture, and Assimilation” featuring photographer Jeremy Dennis. Dennis is a tribal member of the Shinnecock Indian Nation living and working on the Shinnecock Reservation in Southampton, New York. In his talk, Dennis will explore issues of identity, culture, and assimilation, and how these manifest within his work. Registration for this Zoom event is required here.
His current exhibition at the Hope Horn Gallery, "Mapping Shinnecock: Sites and Portraits. Photographs by Jeremy Dennis" will be presented through April 29, 2022. The exhibition features a selection of images from the online projects "On this Site" and "The Shinnecock Portrait Project" which Dennis has developed over the past few years. In this exhibition, Dennis’s photographs will be on display in the gallery and there are additional project websites that also include interactive components such as Google Street views and recorded interviews that add to interpretations of the works. For more information about Dennis and the supporting interconnected websites, please visit the Hope Horn Gallery’s event page.
Artist Jeremy Dennis has explained his work as “a means of examining my identity and the identity of my community, specifically the unique experience of living on a sovereign Indian reservation and the problems we face...As racial divisions and tensions reach a nationwide fever pitch, it’s more important to me than ever to offer a complex and compelling representation of Indigenous people.”
In addition to his work as an artist, Dennis is also the founder and leader of Ma’s House & BIPOC Art Studio Inc., a project started in June 2020 to create a communal art space based on the Shinnecock Indian Reservation in Southampton, New York. The family house, built in the 1960s, features a residency program for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), art studio, library, along with hosting an array of art and history-based programs for tribe members and the broader local community.
On Friday, April 1 from 5 – 9 p.m., the Hope Horn Gallery will be open for visits to the "Mapping Shinnecock. Sites And Portraits. Photographs By Jeremy Dennis" exhibition as a part of this April’s First Friday Scranton. Light refreshments will be available. Additional visits to this exhibition are available by appointment now through April 29, 2022, by emailing darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
This lecture is offered in conjunction with the" Scranton's Story, Our Nation's Story" project's third theme, Indigenous History of Northeastern Pennsylvania. While the Shinnecock Nation is based in Long Island, New York, and not local to NEPA, this exhibit and lecture will address broader issues related to understanding historical and contemporary representations of Indigenous cultures.
Additional events in the “Indigenous History of Northeastern Pennsylvania” theme will include humanities lectures and a community visit by a Delaware/Lenape leader. On Wednesday, May 11, scholar Nicole Eustace, professor of history at New York University, will present “‘Murder and Merc’”: A Colonial Encounter in the Susquehanna Valley” and the following week on Wednesday, May 18, Samantha Seeley, associate professor of history at the University of Richmond, will present “Removal and the Right to Remain in the Early United States.” In November 2022, there will be a visit and presentation by Curtis Zunigha, an enrolled member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians (Oklahoma); the Delaware/Lenape people are among the original inhabitants of what is today Northeastern Pennsylvania, a region that is part of their traditional and ancestral homeland. Zunigha is an expert on Delaware/Lenape culture, language and traditional practices and co-director of the Lenape Center based in New York City.
For more information on all events and the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project, please visit scranton.edu/scrantonstory.
Follow “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” on Facebook and Instagram @ourscrantonstory and on Twitter @scrantonstory.
This project has been made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in these events do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
March 28 Artist Lecture to Explore Indigenous Identity
The University of Scranton held a Byzantine Catholic prayer service for Ukraine in the Byzantine Rite Chapel in Ciszek Hall on campus just prior to spring break. Rev. Dr. Eduard Shestak, a native of Ukraine and Byzantine Catholic priest and theology instructor at the University, led the Molében to the Precious and Life-Giving Cross.
Since Feb. 26, The University has lit the Ukraine flag in its three-story, Class of 2020 Gateway sign to show support for the people of Ukraine. Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, also addressed the crisis happening in the Ukraine in an Ash Wednesday message sent to the University community on March 2.
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Performance Music at The University of Scranton will welcome back acclaimed violinist Kako Miura for a recital on Saturday, April 2. The recital will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue.
Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis. All audience members are required to wear a higher-grade mask (N95, KN95, KF94 or double masking) at all times. Please check Performance Music’s website within 24 hours of the recital for the most current information on additional required audience COVID-19 mitigation measures (e.g., masking, vaccination, distancing, etc.).
Originally from Tokyo and currently based in New York City, Miura has performed internationally as a soloist with orchestras in Asia, Australia and the United States. Her solo and chamber music performances have taken her to a number of high-profile venues, including Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center, Weill and Zankel Halls at Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House.
According to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga, “The stunning virtuosity of Ms. Miura’s performances mesmerizes our audiences and students every time she is here. We are delighted to welcome her back to our hall along with two of her colleagues.”
The recipient of numerous accolades, Miura took first prize in the Nagano International Music Festival Violin Competition, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra’s Young Artists Competition, and Sound Symphony Orchestra’s Solo Competition. She also received the National YoungArts Foundation Award.
Long committed to community engagement and music education, Miura has worked extensively with the Music Advancement Program of The Juilliard School’s Preparatory Division, teaching violin and courses on historical performance and curricular studies. In 2019, as part of Juilliard’s Young People’s Concerts series, she conceived, directed and performed “A Day in the Life of a King,” an original interactive concert centered around Baroque music, for elementary school students in New York City.
Miura earned a Bachelor of Music from Juilliard, where she also attended the Pre-College Program, and a Master of Music from The Colburn School. She’s now pursuing another graduate degree in historical performance at Juilliard under the guidance of Cynthia Roberts, Elizabeth Blumenstock and Robert Mealy. She’s also studied under Robert Lipsett and Masao Kawasaki.
Miura will be joined at the recital by cellist Cullen O’Neil, whose performances have brought her to venues such as Alice Tully Hall, the Kennedy Center, Mariinsky II in St. Petersburg, Great Hall of the Moscow Conservatory, Royal Albert Hall as part of the BBC Proms, the Helsinki Musiikkitalo and the Philharmonie de Paris alongside Les Arts Florissants. Also performing will be pianist/harpsichordist Elliot Figg, an active member of several New York-based early music and contemporary ensembles, whose recent engagements include as conductor and harpsichordist for the U.S. premiere of Chevalier de St-Georges’ L’Amant Anonyme with Little Opera Theatre of New York, assistant conductor and harpsichordist for Vivaldi’s Farnace, and for Cavalli’s Veremonda, both with Spoleto Festival USA, and assistant conductor and harpsichordist for Dido and Aeneas with L.A. Opera.
For further information on the recital, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more info on Miura, visit www.colburnschool.edu/calendar/season-overview/kako-miura.
Violinist Kako Miura Returns to Scranton April 2
Fifty University of Scranton students participated in four domestic service trips, organized by the Center for Service and Social Justice, over spring break. Students helped with disaster relief efforts, refugee assistance and with tutoring and mentoring children. They worked with persons with disabilities and former gang members and helped out at soup kitchens and food pantries
During spring break, the students volunteered at the Christian Appalachian Project/Workfest in Appalachia, Kentucky; The McKenna Center in Washington, D.C.; and the Romero Center in Camden, New Jersey. Students also participated in the Electric City Experience, through which they volunteered in the Scranton region at Neighbor Works, St. Francis Soup Kitchen, Nativity Miguel School, St. Joseph’s Center and other Scranton-area projects.
The following students served at Christian Appalachian Project/Workfest:
Tabatha Berger, Cresco;
Stephen Butler, Telford;
Brandon DaGrosa, Hazle Township;
Laura Echausse, Mineola, New York;
Fione Evans, Scranton;
Kaitlyn Franceschelli, Spring Brook Township;
Lauren McGuire, Pearl River, New York;
Cole Miller, Levittown;
Hailey Monaghan, Langhorne;
Thomas Pisano, Staten Island, New York;
Fanny Rodriguez, Sheppton;
Peter Sims, Yardley;
Maria Stephen, Huntingdon Valley;
Lauren Usaitis, Du Bois;
Miguel Valencia, Farmingdale, New York;
Sarah White, Brooklyn, New York, who also served as a peer facilitator.
Sean Brennan, professor of history; Rose Merritt, office manager, Counseling Center; and Jason Schwass, senior director of student success, Kania School of Management, served as chaperones.
University students serving with Christian Appalachian Project were highlighted in this Lexington, Kentucky WKYT news story.
The following students participated in the Electric City Experience:
Kayla Abcede, Garwood, New Jersey;
Abigail Casal, South Abington Township;
Victoria Chiulli, Scarsdale, New York;
Robert Correas-Rivera, Reading;
Caitlin Czyzewski, Philadelphia;
Rachael Gallagher, Havertown, who also served as a peer facilitator;
Angelina Guido, Merrimack, New Hampshire;
Jenna Kotlar, Branchburg, New Jersey;
Kristen LeFebvre, Ridgefield, Connecticut;
Kayla Maas, Barryville, New York;
Kate Malloy, Bethlehem;
Margaret McGrath, Drexel Hill;
Bailey McLaughlin, Allentown, New Jersey, who also served as a peer facilitator;
Brooke McNabola, Wallingford, Connecticut;
Emily Nowak, Hackettstown, New Jersey;
Marina Nunziato, Cranford, New Jersey;
David Pennino, Smithtown, New York;
Laura Petrera, Butler, New Jersey;
Cayman Webber, Buckeye, Arizona;
Brian White, Brooklyn, New York.
Lynn Gavin, coordinator of local service and community outreach for the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice, served as chaperone.
The following students served at The McKenna Center:
Marino Angeloni, Jessup, who also served as a peer facilitator;
Mary Bunone, Ramsey, New Jersey;
Matthew Duffy, Plainview, New York;
Nicole Gomber, Province, New Jersey;
Daniella Gomes, Staten Island, New York;
Kyle Kennelly, Huntington, New York;
Sophia McMullan, Cranford, New Jersey;
Michael Meyer, Paramus, New Jersey.
Melissa Eckenrode, administrative assistant, Department of English and Theatre, and Alec Hufford, a Jesuit novice assigned to the University’s Office of Campus Ministries and the Center for Service and Social Justice, served as chaperones.
The following students served at the Romero Center:
Erin Grell, Wood Ridge, New Jersey;
Isaiah Livelsberger, Hanover;
Jennifer Noll, Paoli;
Mia Sandy, Scranton;
Julia Turnak, Hingham, Massachusetts;
Kathleen Wallace, Bowie, Maryland.
Shannon Everton, Sykesville, Maryland, graduate occupational therapy student and graduate assistant in the Center of Service and Social Justice, served as chaperone.
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Two upcoming Schemel Forum World Affairs Seminars at The University of Scranton will explore topics related to Russia.
Fredrik Logevall, Ph.D., Laurence D. Belfer Professor of International Affairs at Harvard University, changed his planned topic in light of the invasion of Ukraine. On Thursday, March 24, Dr. Logevall will now present “A New Cold War? How to Think about the Struggle in Ukraine.” The noon luncheon seminar will take place in the Rose Room of Brennan Hall on campus. A remote option is also available for participation.
On Friday, April 22. Russian expert Jill Dougherty, who formerly served as CNN’s Moscow Bureau Chief for nearly a decade, will discuss “Russia and the Post-Truth Society.”
“During the Cold War, the USSR tried to convince the world that communism was the future of humankind,” said Dougherty, a CNN on-air contributor. “The U.S. tried to convince the world that democracy and capitalism gave people a better life. Today, propagandists still try to convince but, more and more, try to confuse and to overwhelm their target audiences with a firehose of mis- and dis-information.”
Dougherty, who is currently teaching a course titled “Information Wars” at Georgetown University, will explore the new paradigm, what it means for Russia, and what it could mean for America. The noon luncheon seminar will take place in the Kane Forum of Edward Leahy Hall and will also be offered in a remote format.
Admission is free for University students, faculty and staff and Schemel Forum members. For non-members, the luncheons are $25 in person and $10 remotely. To register for the seminars, contact Alicen Morrison, Schemel Forum assistant, at 570-941-6206 or alicen.morrison@scranton.edu. To pay by credit card over the phone, contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816, or to pay online, visit: www.scranton.edu/schemelforum.
For more information on Schemel Forum programs and memberships, contact Sondra Myers, Schemel Forum director, at 570-941-4089 or sondra.myers@scranton.edu.
Schemel Forum Seminars with a Russian Twist
University of Scranton students, faculty and staff learned about the ways in which different Asian cultures and traditions celebrate the Lunar New Year at the Asian New Year Festival and Workshop held on campus in the spring semester. The program included hands-on lessons on Chinese calligraphy and Japanese origami related to the Year of the Tiger and a chopstick competition.
According to Ann Pang-White, Ph.D., director of Asian Studies and professor of philosophy at The University of Scranton, many Asian cultures celebrate the New Year differently, however, there is more consensus around the meaning of the tiger in the Chinese zodiac.
The event also included presentations about Asia’s chopstick culture and the meaning of chopsticks, how new year is celebrated in Japan, and how it is celebrated in China and Taiwan. Instructors and students from the Japanese and Chinese classes at Scranton assisted with the hands-on portion of the workshop.
WBRE/WYOU News reporter Madonna Mantione covered the workshop.
The workshop was co-sponsored by the departments of Asian Studies and World Languages and Cultures.
$content.getChild('content').textValueAsian Studies Workshop Celebrates Lunar New Year
The University of Scranton hosted a lecture by the author of “The Future of Catholic Higher Education: The Open Circle,” Rev. James L. Heft, in honor of the Jesuit school’s participation in Ignatius 500, a worldwide celebration marking the 500th anniversary of St. Igantius of Loyola’s conversion. The University’s College of Arts and Sciences and Jesuit Center co-sponsored the talk by Father Heft, the Alton M. Brooks Professor of Religion and founding president of the Institute for the Advancement of Catholic Studies at the University of Southern California. From left: David Dzurec, Ph.D., associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Ryan Sheehan, J.D., assistant director of the Jesuit Center; and Father Heft.
Author Discusses Future of Catholic Education
For the seventh annual presentation in the Jay Nathan, Ph.D. Visiting Scholar Lecture Series, The University of Scranton will host Her Excellency, Ambassador Bergdís Ellertsdóttir of Iceland. Ambassador Ellertsdóttir will present a lecture titled, “Iceland: History, Culture, Environment” on Tuesday, March 29, at 4 p.m.
Ambassador Ellertsdóttir’s presentation will explore the intricacies of Iceland, its government, economic system, history and culture. A panel discussion will accompany the presentation. Following the panel discussion, there will be a demonstration of Icelandic culture in a performance by the classical violinist Eva Ingolfsdóttir. At the conclusion of the event, a reception will be held for all those in attendance.
Ambassador Ellertsdóttir began to serve as Iceland’s ambassador to the United States on Sept. 16, 2019. Prior to this appointment, she held positions at Iceland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs, the Icelandic Embassy in Germany and the European Free Trade Association. Ambassador Ellertsdóttir has also previously served as ambassador of Iceland to Belgium, Netherlands, Luxemburg, Switzerland and San Marino. She received her education at the University of Freiburg in Germany, studying German, political science, English and history. Then, at the University of Iceland she continued studying political science and English. She earned her master’s in European studies from the University of Essex in Britain.
Ingolfsdóttir is a classical violinist, animator and composer with her first album of compositions in the works. She started to play the violin at a young age and has studied broadly in Europe, beginning her training at the Conservatory of Reykjavík, and traveling to conservatories in Brussels, Geneva, and Amsterdam. She has played solo recitals around the globe, including stages in Iceland, Japan, the United States, Russia and Europe.
This lecture is sponsored by the Weinberg Memorial Library and will take place on March 29 in the Moskovitz Theater of the DeNaples Center. The event is free of charge and open guests from the greater Scranton community through the generous support of Dr. Nathan. Reservations are encouraged and can be made on the Jay Nathan, Ph.D. Visiting Scholar Lecture Series webpage or by calling Kym Balthazar Fetsko at 570-941-7816.
Health and safety protocols that are in effect on March 29 as outlined in the Royals Back Together plan must be followed by those in attendance.
Iceland to be Discussed at Nathan Lecture
The University of Scranton’s Ellacuría Initiative will host an all-day Teach-In for Racial Justice on Tuesday, March 29, in LSC 133.
The Teach-In allows space for University students, faculty, and staff to explore issues of racial justice from several disciplinary perspectives. Sessions will be led by different faculty and held during each class period.
"Fr. Ellacuría urged the University to communicate knowledge beyond the campus to help shape the consciousness of the wider society, to use our resources -- the greatest of which are our people: our faculty, staff and students -- to participate in matters that affect the real lives of people," said Dr. Teresa Grettano, associate professor in English and theatre and director of The Ellacuría Initiative.
The Ellacuría Initiative held a virtual 'Teach-in for Racial Justice' via Zoom in fall 2020, to coincide with #ScholarStrike, the national movement coordinated by Drs. Anthea Butler from the University of Pennsylvania and Kevin Gannon from Grand View University. The #ScholarStrike was meant to disrupt “business as usual” on college campuses, protest racial injustice, stand in solidarity with people of color, and use academic expertise to speak to the current moment.
"This is exactly the work Fr. Ignacio Ellacuría called the University to do in his proyección social (social projection)," said Grettano.
Over 1000 students and almost 50 classes attended the 2020 Teach-In. Dr. Grettano said that she hopes an in-person program will bring even more people out this year.
Faculty are invited to bring whole classes of students. The entire university community is encouraged to attend sessions throughout the day. Royal card readers will be used to track attendance.
Questions? Contact: justice-education@scranton.edu
Safety protocols set forth by the Royals Back Together Plan will be followed.
Schedule of events:
Teach-In For Racial Justice March 29
The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) awarded University of Scranton Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) student Gregory Kogan the Michael J. Barrett Doctoral Dissertation Award for his DBA program dissertation study entitled “RPA in Accounting Risk and Internal Control Governance: Insights from RPA Program Managers.” The IIA’s dissertation award is typically given to one dissertation a year under the oversight of the Committee of Research and Education Advisors.
Kogan is the second Scranton DBA student to receive this prestigious award in that past three years. In 2020, then DBA student Joy Chacko received the award for his DBA program dissertation study.
“In the history of IIA’s dissertation award, which began in 2004, only two other institutions have had two students received this award – Case Western University and the University of Texas at Austin. Now, Scranton joins that elite list of schools,” said Douglas M. Boyle, DBA, Accounting Department chair and DBA program director.
The IIA’s Committee of Research and Education Advisors is comprised of both academicians and practitioners actively involved in the profession of internal auditing. The selection process is competitive and includes the following criteria: relevance of the topic to internal auditing; soundness of methodology; coherent organization and clarity of presentation; and quality of data (where applicable). With an international membership of more than 200,000 members, the IIA is among the largest and most respected professional organizations for accountants.
“The Scranton DBA program faculty were very caring and provided rigorous course work while also emphasizing key avenues toward success with research and publication,” said Kogan, who in 2021 co-authored the text book “Self-Service Data Analytics and Governance for Managers.”
A certified public accountant (CPA), Kogan, Manalapan, New Jersey, is an assistant professor of practice in accounting at Virginia Tech University. He previously taught accounting practice at Long Island University. He has experience as an auditor at Ernst & Young and as a controller at Tiger Management. He earned his bachelor’s degree in computer science and his MBA in accounting from Rutgers University. He is a member of the third cohort of DBA students at Scranton and will graduate from the program in 2022.
Members of Kogan’s dissertation committee include Dr. Boyle, dissertation committee chair, and Jeff Cohen, Ph.D., professor of accounting at Boston College.
Housed in the Kania School of Management, the University’s DBA program began in the fall semester of 2017. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) recognized Scranton’s DBA program for “Innovations and Best Practices in Canada, Latin America and the United States” in 2019. The program was developed with a concentration in accounting, to provide experienced practitioners with a practical pathway to an academic career. The program offers participants flexibility, while still providing for the development of the knowledge and skill set necessary to become a “scholarly academic” – one who is qualified to teach at a school of business that possesses or is seeking formal accreditation by Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International).
Second DBA Student Wins Esteemed Dissertation Award
The University of Scranton baseball team has won six straight and sits at 7-1-1 overall, while the women's basketball team saw their impressive 27-3 season come to an end with a Sweet 16 setback against NYU.
For more on those teams and the rest of the week that was in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Red Hot Baseball Team Highlights Start of Spring Sports for Royals
A book translated by Ann Pang-White, Ph. D., professor of philosophy and director of the Asian Studies Program at The University of Scranton, was selected to be featured in a philosophy digital campaign for Oxford University Press called “Philosophy in Focus.”
Dr. Pang-White’s translation of the book “The Confucian Four Books for Women: A New Translation of the Nü Sishu and the Commentary of Wang Xiang” is included in the recommended reading section of the Oxford University Press campaign’s website and in its social media for March, which focused on the theme of feminism in recognition of Women History Month and International Women’s Day (March 8).
The philosophy digital campaign by Oxford University Press hosts a selection of “high-quality, thought provoking free content around a particular theme” each month with aim of expanding the reach, engagement and awareness of featured books within in the philosophy community.
“The Confucian Four Books for Women,” published by Oxford University Press in 2018 and translated with introductions, annotations and notes by Dr. Pang-White, is the first complete English translation of the Nü Shishu and the commentary of Wang Xiang. The 16th century book is a female counterpart to the Sishu (Four Books) compiled by Zhu Xi. It includes four books by five women authors over a span of 1,600 years and provides a look at the history and evolution of Chinese women’s writing, education, identity and philosophical discourse.
Dr. Pang-White joined the faculty at Scranton in 1997. She received the University’s 2010 and 2017 Provost Award for Excellence in Advancing Global Learning. In 2011, she guided the Asian Studies Program in receiving the Bringing the World to Pennsylvania: K-16 Collaborative Award from the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Council for International Education.
Dr. Pang-White’s has published numerous articles in scholarly journals related to her research interests in interdisciplinary aspects of Chinese philosophy and Western theories on metaphysics, ethics, political philosophy and women. Her book “The Bloomsbury Research Handbook of Chinese Philosophy and Gender” was published in 2016.
Dr. Pang-White earned her bachelor’s degree from Tung-Hai University in Taiwan, her master’s degree from the University of South Carolina–Columbia and her doctorate from Marquette University.
Professor Book Featured by Oxford University Press
The University of Scranton’s Weinberg Memorial Library will hold its annual Book Sale on Saturday, April 30, from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Sunday, May 1, from noon until 4 p.m. in the Scranton Heritage Room on the fifth floor of the library. Book prices begin at 50 cents and the large assortment of used hardcover and paperback books available for sale include children’s books, cookbooks, fiction and non-fiction.
A special preview sale will be held on Friday, April 29, for current Friends’ members and Schemel Forum members.
All proceeds from the event will benefit the Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library Endowment, which supports library collections and services.
The Weinberg Memorial Library is accepting paperback and hardcover books in good condition, such as children's books, young adult books, cookbooks, fiction, and non-fiction books. Appointments to donate books are needed. The library is also seeking volunteers to help work the book sale. Volunteer shifts are flexible. To schedule an appointment to donate books, obtain clarification on accepted books, or to volunteer, please reach out to Melisa Gallo at melisa.gallo@scranton.edu or by phone at 570-941-6195.
The University of Scranton health and safety protocols in place on April 30 and May 1 outlined in the Royals Back Together plan must be followed by volunteers and guests.
Books Start at 50 Cents at Library Book Sale
The University of Scranton’s pre-law advisory program guides undergraduate students of various majors through the process of fulfilling the requirements for law school.
Pre-law advisor and professor in the Department of Philosophy, Matthew Meyer Ph.D., begins working with students in their first year, offering course selection guidance and personalized advice based on individual student interests.
The American Bar Association refrains from stating a major best suited for law school preparation, but rather suggests that undergraduate education should enhance students’ problem solving, critical reading and writing, oral communication and listening. Working closely with Scranton alumni and the University’s legal studies concentration, students in the pre-law program are encouraged to develop a wide range of skills both inside and outside of the classroom.
Additionally, leadership opportunities are available on campus through the student-run Pre-Law Society and Mock Trial Team, which all pre-law students are encouraged to join upon entry into the program.
Scranton also has several 3+3 affiliation agreements with law schools, such as Boston College Law School and Villanova University School of Law, allowing the possibility for students to complete their bachelor’s and law degrees in six years rather than seven years.
Additional information about the University’s pre-law programs is available on Scranton’s website.
Is Scranton’s Pre-Law Program for You?
The University of Scranton’s Political Dialogues Working group in collaboration with various campus and community partners and in conjunction with the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project will offer a nonpartisan Political Dialogue on “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?” on Tuesday, March 22 from 7 – 8:30 p.m. This dialogue event will offer an opportunity for University students, faculty and staff, and Scranton area community members alike to engage in a nonpartisan open discussion about the foundational concept of freedom.
This dialogue will be held on The University of Scranton campus in The Kane Forum in Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Hall and will involve facilitated small-group structured dialogues that will allow participants to reflect on freedom and the founding along with our role as citizens in a democracy. Participants will have a chance to both share their own experiences and perspectives on issues that relate to freedom and equality today while listening to others’ views and engaging in conversation. Registration for this public dialogue is required at: surveymonkey.com/r/FreedomDialogue2022
The University has organized similar discussions on campus since 2017 as part of an ongoing Dialogue Across Differences Initiative, which blends the reflective, structured dialogue methods of national non-profit Essential Partners with St. Ignatius of Loyola’s teachings of discernment and reflection. For tips on how to have your own constructive dialogue that involves both listening to and learning from others, click here.
This dialogue event is a part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project’s second theme, “The U.S. Citizen and the American Founding,” which focuses on the concept of freedom – both for our founders and for us today. Theme events, hosted by The University of Scranton along with community partners, will engage with the larger questions and concerns surrounding the topic of freedom and our shared democracy as our nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
Theme 2 events began with a Book Discussion on Freedom: An Unruly History on Thursday, Feb. 3 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Participants reflected on excerpted readings of the book, “Freedom: An Unruly History,” by scholar Annelien de Dijn and shared their own views on the concept of freedom in a discussion led by Dr. Matt Meyer, University of Scranton Philosophy faculty member. Discussion themes included the origin of the concept of freedom along with the relationship between freedom and government, the common good, and rules. This hybrid event was hosted by the Scranton Public Library.
Theme events continued Mar. 1 with a humanities lecture held via Zoom at 5 pm, “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?,” featuring distinguished scholars Annelien De Dijn, author, Freedom: An Unruly History, and Aziz Rana, author, Two Faces of American Freedom. This event explored the evolution of the concept of freedom, how it was understood at the time of our nation’s founding almost 250 years ago, and how we can re-engage with its meaning today. The recording is now available for this event on the project’s playlist within The University of Scranton's YouTube channel here.
For further details including event updates, humanities resources, and information on upcoming themes, please visit the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project website at scranton.edu/scrantonstory and contact community@scranton.edu with questions.
Follow “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” on Facebook and Instagram @ourscrantonstory and on Twitter @scrantonstory.
This project has been made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in these events do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Spring Political Dialogue to Focus on Freedom
The Offices of the President and Provost cordially invite you to the Spring Convocation. The program will feature an introduction of new staff; the presentation of the Sursum Corda Awards; and the President’s Address to the University Community.
Please mark your calendars for Tuesday, April 5, 2022, at 11:30 a.m. in the DeNaples Center Ballroom 407.
Faculty and Staff: Spring Convocation on April 5
Find information and deadline information for various awards and scholarships with upcoming deadlines below.
Francis P. Boland, MD Memorial Scholarship
JUNIOR PRE-MED STUDENTS
Eligibility Requirements
Candidates for this award must be considered juniors in 2022-2023 and intend to graduate in May 2024.
First consideration will be given to sons and daughters of the Regional Hospital of Scranton (formerly the Mercy Hospital family). Family is intended to signify persons affiliated with the hospital. If there is no candidate associated with the Regional Hospital of Scranton (formerly the Mercy Hospital), consideration will then be given to Lackawanna County residents.
Candidates for the award should intend to pursue a medical degree. The award recipient will be a declared pre-med student.
Candidates must submit a profile including G.P.A., classwork and extra-curricular involvement.
Candidates must also submit a one-page typed essay expressing their goals in medicine.
The candidate will be selected based on merit. Financial need will only be used as the determining factor for a final decision when there is a tie.
Deadline for submitting applications is Friday, April 15, 2022.
Applications available online at scranton.edu/financialaid. Click on Scholarship and Grants; Additional Scholarship Opportunities.
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The Rev. J.J. Quinn, S.J. Achievement Award
ELIGIBILITY: The Rev. J.J. Quinn, S.J. Achievement Award was established by the late Fredrick A. Hensley, Jr., M.D. ’75 to be awarded to a University graduating senior majoring in any discipline and accepted at an accredited U.S. medical school.
This award is a merit-based award and the award will be made on Class Night.
Deadline: Friday, April 22, 2022.
Applications are available online at scranton.edu/financialaid. Click on Scholarships and Grants; Additional Scholarship Opportunities.
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The Edward J. Spitzer Scholarship
The Edward J. Spitzer Scholarship was endowed to The University of Scranton by the estate of Marian Robling to be awarded to a University graduating senior who will be attending a graduate program in Business Administration at any college. The award will be made on Class Night.
Application is available online at scranton.edu/financialaid. Click on Scholarship and Grants; Additional Scholarship Opportunities.
DEADLINE: MONDAY, APRIL 22, 2022.
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The Congressman & Mrs. Joseph McDade Program for Public Service Scholarship
The Congressman & Mrs. Joseph McDade Program for Public Service Scholarship is awarded based on the following guidelines:
• The applicant must be a University of Scranton sophomore or junior who intends to do the internship in her/his junior or senior year. The internship could be any academic session (summer, fall, intersession, or spring).
• First preference is for students majoring in political science. Consideration will be given to students majoring in other fields traditionally linked to public service such as, but not only, criminal justice.
• Student must have an overal l GPA of at least 3.3.
• The student will be responsible for arranging a 3 credit (120 hour) internship with an agency in the local area and identifying a specific project on which to work at the agency. The agency may be at the city or borough level, county level, state level, or federal level. The local office for the 10th Congressional District is an eligible assignment, as is Tobyhanna Army Deport and the Veterans Hospital in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre.
• A University committee will review applications for internship support. A representative from Political Science Department will coordinate selection.
• The selected candidate must have final approval by the office of Financial Aid.
• The scholarship award may be used for tuition, out of pocket expenses or any other appropriate purpose related to completion of a public service internship.
Please submit with application:
1. Unofficial transcript.
2. Eight-hundred-word essay, outlining the proposed internship project
and detailing how the internship experience will enhance the qualifications of your
intended career choice.
Application deadline for 2021-2022 Friday, April 22, 2022
Applications available online at scranton.edu/financialaid. Click on Scholarship and Grants; Additional Scholarship Opportunities.
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Additional Scholarship Opportunities 2022-23
Applications are available online at scranton.edu/financialaid Click on Scholarship and Grants; Additional Scholarship Opportunities.
Cinram Manufacturing Scholarship
Fleet PA Services Scholarship/Bank of America
James Burns Memorial Scholarship
Irving Grossman Scholarship
John and Lucille Guzey Scholarship Fund
Joseph P. Gallagher Memorial Scholarship
Leslie Fay Scholarship
Monsignor Andrew J. McGowan Cornerstone Scholarship
Purple Club
Neal J. Fasula Scholarship -Undergraduate Students of dependent employees of Gerrity’s SupermarketsThe William E. Atkisson & William J. Brady, Sr. Scholarship
Times-Shamrock Communications Scholarship
TRL Associates Scholarship
United Gilsonite Laboratories Scholarship
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Scully Scholars Summer Internship Program
The program is to provide University of Scranton students with financial assistance to pursue summer internships in public policy and to honor the memory of long-time professor of history and political science, Timothy H. Scully.
Eligibility:
All full-time University of Scranton students who will have completed at least two full years of study by May 2021 are eligible.
Applicants must have identified a potential summer internship sponsored by a Member of the United States Congress, a congressional committee, a state legislator, a state legislative committee, a federal or state agency (inc luding the White House or a governor’s office), a think tank, a national political party, or a public policy organization.
Academic Requirements:
The Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences will determine the number of credit hours to be awarded for the internship. The recipient must submit a paper of scholarly quality, on a public policy subject, during the semester following end of the internship. The paper’s topic must be approved by the chairperson of the University’s Political Science Department, although approval is not required prior to commencement of the internship.
Application and Selection Process:
• Every applicant must submit:
• A completed application form, is available online https://www.scranton.edu/financial-aid/add-schol-opp.shtml
• A brief essay which demonstrates your interest in public policy (no more than two pages, typed and double-spaced).
• An unofficial transcr ipt (available at the Registrar’s Office or on-line).
• Two letters of recommendation, one of which must be from a University professor.
• A current resume.
Deadline Monday, May 16, 2022.
Apply for Awards and Scholarships
This week's senior spotlight is with Alyssa Lamparelli, Palmerton, Pennsylvania, a marketing major and social media strategies minor.
What are your career goals?
After graduating, I plan to go to London, England to get a master's in marketing communications at the University of Westminster.
Tell us about a professional/service/internship experience you had.
I am currently a marketing intern at the University of Scranton Small Business Development Center. I get to work with clients to give them marketing resources, like market research, target market profiles or a marketing plan, customized to their business goals and objectives.
What was the best class you’ve taken in college?
I have enjoyed most of the classes I have taken in college. Some of my favorites were the ones that I took to fulfill the general education requirements because I got to learn about topics I don’t usually get to take as a business major, like an art history course where I got to take a trip to the MET museum to see the art I had been learning about and a psychology class where I’m learning about the brain and human nature.
What's your favorite Scranton tradition?
I love the USPB New York City trips. My friends and I have gone on the trip every semester it was offered and always look forward to them!
Senior Spotlight: Alyssa Lamparelli '22
We're on The Princeton Review's "great list" for "Great Campus Food". Find out what our students have to say about their favorite food on campus.
Video: Favorite Food on Campus
Women in northeastern and central Pennsylvania who are interested in becoming more involved in government can attend the Ready to Run Northeastern Pennsylvania Program at The University of Scranton on Saturday, April 2. The day-long, nonpartisan training session, titled “Wanted: More Women Like You in Politics and Government,” is directed towards women in Bradford, Carbon, Columbia, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Montour, Northampton, Northumberland, Pike, Schuylkill, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties.
The session begins with check-in/registration at 9 a.m. on the fifth floor of Brennan Hall on the University’s campus and ends at 4:30 p.m. Continental breakfast, lunch and a binder with information materials are included with the registration fee.
The Ready to Run NEPA Program, offered by the University’s Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service (CEEPS), trains women to run for office, work on campaigns and get more politically engaged in their community. Participants will gain insight into establishing themselves as credible and viable candidates as well as inspiration to launch a campaign. Topics covered include presentation and messaging skills; fundraising; and how to get started with your campaign. Participants will also gain an understanding of what the underrepresentation of women in Pennsylvania's state and local governments means for women, their families and our communities.
According to Jean Wahl Harris, Ph.D., professor of political science at Scranton and co-director of CEEPS, research shows women govern differently than do men and they bring different priorities and solutions to policy-making process.
“Women public officials work to make government more transparent to their constituents and more accessible to the diversity of people, voices, and concerns in their communities,” said Dr. Harris.
The event is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Lackawanna County. WNEP is the media partner.
Registration is $50 for the general public or $15 for students with ID. A limited number of partial scholarships are also available. Registration is required to attend and can be completed at Scranton.edu/readytorun.
For additional information visit Scranton.edu/readytorun, or contact Sharon Olechna, administrative assistant for the Political Science Department, at 570-941-632 or sharon.olechna@scranton.edu or readytorun@scranton.edu.
Ready To Run NEPA Set for April 2 at University
Note: Access to the campus is currently limited to members of the University community, invited guests and others as listed in the Royals Back Together plan. Campus access and other health and safety information will be updated throughout the semester and can be seen on the Royals Back Together webpage.
Through Apr. 29 Art Exhibit: “Shinnecock Sites and Portraits: Photographs by Jeremy Dennis.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Apr. 2 9 a.m. Ready to Run Northeastern Pennsylvania Campaign School offered in collaboration with the Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service. Fifth floor of Brennan Hall. Fees vary. Registration required. Register at scranton.edu/readytorun. Call 570-941-6326 or mail sharon.olechna@scranton.edu or readytorun@scranton.edu.
Apr. 2 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital” featuring Kako Miura, violinist and friends. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Apr. 6 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “14th Annual Gene Yevich Memorial Concert” featuring Dr. Wycliffe A. Gordon with The University of Scranton Singers and Scranton Brass Orchestra. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Apr. 7 8:30 a.m. Hayes Family Competition in physics and engineering for invited high school students. Byron Complex. Registration required. Call 570-941-6296 or email declan.mulhall@scranton.edu.
Apr. 7 4 p.m. 2022 Annual ACHE Healthcare Symposium: “HEALTH’y Employees Lead to HEALTH’y Patients: Strategies to Support the Well-Being of Healthcare Professionals.” McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Registration required. Includes dinner, presentation and panel discussion. Fees vary. Call 484-632-6605 or email brooke.devers@scranton.edu.
Apr. 7 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring Dr. Wycliffe A. Gordon with The University of Scranton Jazz Band. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Apr. 7-9 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday. “Drowsy Chaperone” presented by The Liva Arts Company. The Royal Theater, McDade Literary and Performing Arts Center. $7 admission. Visit https://livaartscompany.ludus.com or email joelle.cote@scranton.edu.
April 9 8 a.m. Inaugural Conference on Ethics and Excellence in Public Service for public officials, leaders of nonprofit organizations and students. Fifth floor of Brennan Hall. Fees vary. Registration required. Email ceeps@scranton.edu or call 570-941-7401.
Apr. 9-10 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. sessions on Saturday and Sunday. Pysanka workshops to teach the art of decorating Ukrainian Easter eggs with traditional folk designs using a wax-resist method. Smurfit Arts Center. $25 fee will be donated to humanitarian aid in Ukraine via World Central Kitchen. Registration required at surveymonkey.com/r/PysankaApril2022. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Apr. 19-26 Environmental Art Show. Fifth floor Heritage Room of the Weinberg Memorial Library. Free during library hours. Call 570-941-6267 or email mark.murphy@scranton.edu.
April 19 11 a.m. Earth Day Fair. Atrium of Loyola Science Center. Free. . Call 570-941-6267 or email mark.murphy@scranton.edu
Apr. 20 4 p.m. Henry George Spring Lecture: “Evolution of Conventions of Behavior” presented by Andrew Schotter, Ph.D., professor of economics, New York University. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-4048 or email janice.mecadon@scranton.edu.
April 20 5 p.m. Environmentally-Friendly Tie-Dye event. Dionne Campus Green. Free. Call 570-941-6267 or email mark.murphy@scranton.edu.
Apr. 20 6 p.m. Earth Day “Evening of Environmental Science” with University student-run interactive science experiments and exhibit of University of Scranton Earth Day Essay Contest submissions. Essay contest awards will be announced at the event. Loyola Science Center. Free. Call 570-941-6267 or email info@scranton.edu.
Apr. 21 7:30 p.m. Lecture by renowned American climatologist and geophysicist Michael Mann, Ph.D., author of “The New Climate War: The Fight to Take Back Our Planet.” McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-6267 or email mark.murphy@scranton.edu.
Apr. 22 noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “Russia and the Post-Truth Society” presented by Jill Dougherty, former CNN’s Moscow bureau chief for almost a decade, Russian expert, adjunct professor at Georgetown University and a CNN on-air contributor. Kane Forum, Edward Leahy Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Apr. 25 5:30 p.m. Schemel Forum Collaborative Program with the Jesuit Center, The University of Scranton: “A Schemel Legacy: The Engineer and the Monk” presented by Christopher F. Schemel, Ph.D., president Delta Q Consultants, Inc. and courtesy professor of chemical engineering, University of South Florida, and Brother Mario Joseph, Monastery of the Holy Spirit, Conyers, Georgia. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall or remote, reception follows. $25 fee. Registration required. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Apr. 25 5:30 p.m. Art show address by environmental artist Laura Kern. Heritage Room, Weinberg Memorial Library. Free. Call 570-941-6267 or email mark.murphy@scranton.edu.
Apr. 27 1 p.m. “19th Annual Celebration of Student Scholars.” Displays and presentations of undergraduate and graduate student research and scholarly projects. Atrium, Loyola Science Center. Free. Call 570-941-6353 or email tabbi.miller-scandle@scranton.edu.
Apr. 28 5 p.m. Take Back the Night. Event includes a pre-rally with information booths and the Clothesline Project display from 5 to 7 p.m.; followed by a march at 7 p.m. and a speak out at 7:15 p.m. Dionne Campus Green. Free. Call 570-941-7902 or email maria.marinucci@scranton.edu.
Apr. 30-May 1 9 a.m. Saturday; noon Sunday. Friends of the Library Book and Plant Sale. Heritage Room, Weinberg Memorial Library. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Apr. 30 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “39th Annual World Premiere Composition Series Concert” featuring The University of Scranton Concert Band and Concert Choir premiering two new commissioned works by guest composer/conductor Javier Nero. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
University Announces Planned April Events
A Remarkable Tale of Law, Politics, and Religion: The Making of Kiryas Joel, a Hasidic Town in Upstate New York
This talk will explore the fascinating story of Kiryas Joel, a legally recognized municipality in New York made up entirely of strictly Orthodox Hasidic Jews. How did this town come into being? Does it grate against the separation of religion and state in American politics and law? Or is it of a piece with strong, often religious communities that have found their place on the landscape on this country. The story of Kiryas Joel should be of interest to anyone interested in the place of religion in American society.
Copies of American Shtetl: The Making of Kiryas Joel, a Hasidic Village in Upstate New York will be on sale.
David N. Myers, Ph.D., Sady and Ludwig Kahn Professor of Jewish History at UCLA, where he serves as the director of the UCLA Luskin Center for History and Policy.
Nomi Stolzenberg, Founder and Co-director of the USC Center for Law, History and Culture
March 14, Brennan Hall, Rose Room, 509 • Noon to 1:30 p.m.; remote link will be emailed
To register contact alicen.morrison@scranton.edu
Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar, March 14
Junior Bridget Monaghan (Florham Park, N.J./Morristown-Beard) broke the program's single-season three-point record in Saturday's NCAA Tournament Second Round win over Babson and the Lady Royals are headed back to the Sweet 16 for the sixth time in eight seasons.
For more on that and the rest of the week that was in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Monaghan Breaks Single Season Three Point Record as Women's Basketball Punches Sweet 16 Ticket
Accepted students and their families are invited to an in-person Preview Day for Accepted Students on Saturday, March 26, on campus. The event had been virtual since 2020. This year, students can meet representatives from their chosen majors, student activities/services, athletics and more. They and their families will also be able to discuss financial aid questions one-on-one with financial aid staff, tour campus and hear from keynote speakers.
Accepted students can find out more and register here.
Learn about the value of a Scranton education, below.
Accepted Students Invited to In-Person Preview Day
The Office of Equity and Diversity invites all faculty and staff to participate in an opportunity for professional development, sponsored by an It's On US PA state grant.
- Expand your knowledge base and skill set related to:
- The dynamics of sexual/gender-based harassment/interpersonal violence
- Impacts of trauma on individuals and communities
- The informal resolution process in University’s Title IX program
- What makes a case appropriate or not appropriate for informal resolution
- Major stages and mechanics of the informal resolution process
- What happens if an informal resolution process breaks down
- The role of the facilitator: identifying conflicts of interest and bias
- Available campus resources for parties and facilitators
Presented by Maureen Holland, Esq. and Peter Lim, Esq. from the Cozen-O'Connor law firm in Philadelphia.
Maureen Holland, Esq.: A partner in Cozen O’Connor’s Institutional Response Group, Maureen's practice is focused on helping educational institutions improve policies, procedures, and systems for preventing and addressing sexual assault, interpersonal violence, stalking, harassment, discrimination, retaliation, hazing, and other forms of prohibited conduct under Title IX, the Clery Act, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, and other federal and state laws.
Maureen helps schools design and implement effective institutional responses that integrate the complex federal and state regulatory framework with the unique dynamics of sexual and gender-based harassment and the impacts of interpersonal violence on individuals and communities. She provides hands-on assistance developing policies and procedures, conducting investigations, serving as an external decision-maker, and developing and delivering training programs in compliance with Title IX, Clery, VAWA, and related laws.
As an attorney in IRG, Maureen served as Interim Title IX Coordinator at Baylor University, helping to build Baylor’s Office of Institutional Equity; and Interim Director of Investigations at a large state university, restructuring their intake and investigative processes. She currently leads a team of IRG attorneys who serve as equity consultants for Michigan State University, reviewing policies, procedures, and closed investigative cases each academic semester and reporting on legal compliance and effective practices as part of the University’s agreement with the Office for Civil Rights.
Maureen regularly delivers comprehensive training on federal compliance and effective practices for Title IX coordinators, investigators, and decision-makers.
Peter Lim, Esq.: Peter advises colleges and universities nationwide on Title IX, the Clery Act, and other laws that apply in the higher education context. He helps develop Title IX policies and protocols to ensure compassionate, consistent, and balanced responses to incidents of sexual and gender-based discrimination and also conducts investigations involving allegations of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and other forms of prohibited conduct. Peter assists colleges and universities in conducting hearings as either a decision-maker or legal adviser; routinely delivers trainings on Title IX-related federal compliance; and has facilitated the informal resolution of a wide variety of sexual misconduct matters.
Prior to joining the firm, Peter served as a senior Title IX investigator at the University of Pennsylvania and prosecutor in the Special Victims Unit at the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office. While at Penn, he managed a wide variety of sexual misconduct matters involving students and faculty, was a member of the initial assessment response team, served on the restorative justice steering committee, and helped develop Penn’s eight-part educational program for students who violated its sexual misconduct policy.
During his nine years as a prosecutor in the Homicide & Family Violence and Sexual Assault Units at the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, Peter gained extensive jury trial experience handling criminal matters involving sexual violence and homicide. As a senior sex-crimes litigator, he prosecuted cases involving alcohol-facilitated sexual assault and provided trainings to other prosecutors on medical and forensic evidence. In addition, Peter taught advanced interviewing techniques to forensic interviewers at the Philadelphia Children’s Alliance and trained social workers at the Department of Human Services how to properly respond to allegations of child sexual assault and issues related to teenage recantation. In 2013, Peter received the prestigious Lynne Abraham Prosecutor Award for Exemplary Services and Support to Victims and Witnesses of Crime.
Peter is co-chair of the firm’s Asian Attorney Resource Group and a member of the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of California at San Diego and earned his J.D. from Temple University Beasley School of Law.
Faculty and Staff: Informal Resolution Best Practices
University of Scranton Campus Ministries will hold a Byzantine Catholic Molében intercessory prayer service for Ukraine this Thursday, Mar. 10 from 4:30-5:15 p.m. in the Ciszek Hall Chapel (in the Career Services building next to Student Health Services).
Rev. Dr. Eduard Shestak, native Ukrainian Byzantine Catholic priest and theology instructor at The University of Scranton, will lead us in prayer and offer a brief presentation on the current war in Ukraine.
All students, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend.
Praying for Ukraine Service and Presentation, March 10
The University of Scranton has named George Aulisio as of Dean of the Weinberg Memorial Library, effective immediately. Dean Aulisio has been serving as the interim dean of the library since July 1, 2021.
“Since Dean Aulisio joined the University community in 2009, he has been actively involved in multiple aspects of campus life. His internal service is wide-reaching, having served on 40 Library departmental committees and programs, as well as with nearly 40 broader University service projects and committees,” said Jeff Gingerich, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, in an announcement to the University community.
The dean of the Weinberg Memorial Library provides leadership and strategic direction for all aspects of library services to the University, contributing to the Library’s campus-wide focus on transformative teaching and learning in the Ignatian tradition. The dean oversees the library and plays a creative role in fostering a climate conducive to supporting the teaching, learning and scholarship of students, faculty and staff.
At Scranton, Dean Aulisio currently serves on Library Advisory Committee, Friends of the Library Board, Faculty Handbook Committee, the Graduate Programs Council, the Information Security Advisory Council, the Provost’s Committee on Academic Policy and Compliance, the Faculty Personnel Committee and the Strategic Enrollment Council, among others. He previously served on the Hiring for Diversity Working Group and the Faculty Affairs Council Executive Committee, among numerous other committees.
As a research and instruction librarian, Dean Aulisio works closely with students in research consultations and the Information Literacy program. His library scholarship focuses on sustainability and green libraries, open access initiatives, library orientation and instruction, and professional ethics and copyright law. He recently published a book on philosophy collection development for an imprint of the American Library Association, and he has been the editor of the Library Materials and Pricing Index since 2018.
His professional service includes holding elected officer positions on the Pennsylvania Library Association’s Northeast Chapter and the College and Research Division. He also serves in an appointed officer position for the American Library Association.
Dean Aulisio also regularly teaches philosophy courses and independent studies courses at Scranton. His philosophy scholarship focuses on the philosophy of mind, Descartes’s scientific endeavors and comparative ethics.
Dean Aulisio earned his bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Bloomsburg University. He earned a Master of Science in library and information science from Drexel University and a Master of Liberal Arts in philosophy from the University of Pennsylvania. He is currently completing his Ph.D. in philosophy at Temple University.
Weinberg Memorial Library Dean Named
In 2021, The University of Scranton received an honorable mention along with a gift basket for its entry in the Tourism Ireland Greening competition. For the past 11 years, Tourism Ireland worked to "green" iconic locations and buildings around the world. Facilities Operations partnered with Kara Bishop and Huey Shi Chew from the Office of Global Education to make the entry a reality. The University of Scranton was one of 690 other schools and iconic buildings to enter the competition for a chance to win a scholarship to study at Maynooth University in Ireland. Because The University of Scranton was a runner-up, the school received a box of Irish cuisine with a collection of chocolates, cookies and coffee. For 2022, Facilities Operations is looking for ways in which to improve the greening to win the 2022 competition. If you have any suggestions, please email mark.murphy@scranton.edu.
The scholarship competition is sponsored by Maynooth University along with other Irish universities in partnership with Tourism Ireland. The scholarship is valued around $5,000. Tourism Ireland encourages North American universities to turn their campuses green for St Patricks’ Day. Other participants in the greening competition have included iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Empire State Building. For the past two years, The University of Scranton has lit the Class of 2020 Gateway green and competed with these iconic landmarks.
Maynooth University enrolls over 13,700 undergraduate students. Each student at Maynooth University comes from different backgrounds, nationalities and cultures. Over 2000 international students from around the world attend Maynooth University yearly. The International Office is the first point of contact for new students and collaborates with other Irish universities. Besides support, the International Office provides cultural information and assistance to international students. The International Office Team works together to make international students as comfortable as possible by supporting their integration into Irish culture.
For more information regarding the competition, please see Tourism Ireland’s press release about the 2021 competition.
Scranton Recognized in Tourism Ireland Greening Competition
Neal Thompson, a 1987 University of Scranton graduate, will return to campus to discuss his new book, “The First Kennedys: The Humble Roots of An American Dynasty,” on March 30 at 5 p.m. lecture. The book is the story of the first Kennedys escaped the potato famine of Ireland and came to America in the mid-1800s.
Bridget Murphy and Patrick Kennedy arrived in America penniless, hungry and hopeful, like many thousands of mid-1800s immigrants. They met, married, and had five children together, losing their first-born son as an infant. Three years later, Patrick became ill and died of consumption. This left Bridget – JFK’s tenacious great-grandmother – to raise four children single-handedly in the slums of East Boston.
“I wanted to find a story that told many stories. I wanted to explore the origins of the Kennedy family in America. I wanted to understand Irish immigration in America. I wanted to understand life for Irish immigrants in the 1800s, which was when Bridget (Murphy Kennedy) came here,” said Thompson about his book during a recent interview published by the JFK Library.
In “The First Kennedys,” Thompson highlights Bridget’s ability to overcome both discrimination and poverty to maintain her family and clear a path for her only son P.J. to become the first of many Kennedys elected to public office.
The grandson of an Irish immigrant couple, also named Bridget and Patrick, Thompson is the author of five highly acclaimed books, including “A Curious Man,” “Driving with the Devil” and “Kickflip Boys.” A former newspaper reporter, Thompson has written for The New York Times, Washington Post, Outside, Esquire, Backpacker, Vanity Fair and The Wall Street Journal.
Thompson will sign copies of his book prior to his talk, from 4:30 to 5 p.m. on the 4th floor of the DeNaples Center, and immediately following his discussion, which begins at 5 p.m. in the Moskovitz Theater in the DeNaples Center.
The event is cosponsored by The Gail and Francis Slattery Center for the Ignatian Humanities and the History Department, and is free to University students, faculty, staff and guests from the greater Scranton community. Health and safety protocols that are in effect on March 30 as outlined in the Royals Back Together plan must be followed by those in attendance.
For more information about the lecture of book signing, email david.dzurec@scranton.edu or call 570-941-7561.
Lecture/Book Signing by The First Kennedys Author
Ethiopia, the birthplace of -- wait for it -- coffee! Yes, our beloved beverage originated in Ethiopia, a landlocked, volcanic country in east Africa. Students, faculty and staff are invited to the second spring Global Insights presentation, March 29 at 11:30 a.m. in the Rose Room, Brennan Hall 509. Lensa Keno '24, graduate teaching assistant and student in health administration will present. Cultural cuisine will be offered at this event. Registration is required.
Lensa Keno grew up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She related how welcoming and friendly the Ethiopian people are. Her favorite activities are "hanging out with family and friends, going to the movies and eating ice cream."
A special part of socializing is the coffee ceremony. Keno explained that having coffee in her home country is more than just sitting and drinking a cup. The women of the group take the time to prepare and roast the beans. They grind them and brew the coffee, which is served in small cups for sipping while chatting and sharing personal experiences.
Keno says the country is full of natural wonders and historic sites, including Rock-Hewan Churches of Lalibela (listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List), the Sof Omar Cave and Awash National Park. One of the most significant discoveries in human evolution was unearthed in Ethiopia. She will reveal this treasure during her presentation.
Keno is looking forward to presenting a fresh look at Ethiopia, its history, country and people.
"Diversity is the one true thing we have in common. Celebrate it every day," she said.
This program is being offered by the Office of Global Education, the Cross Cultural Centers, Residence Life and the Office of Equity and Diversity. For more information, please contact international@scranton.edu or 570-941-4841.
Global Insights Features Ethiopia
On March 3, students learned about Dabke with Arabic TA Belal Elkurd who is from Gaza, Palestine. Dabke is a folk dance that combines circle dance and line dancing and is widely performed at weddings, return of travelers, graduation parties, national celebrations and other joyous occasions. The line forms from right to left and the leader (Laweeh) of the Dabke heads the line, alternating between facing the audience and the other dancers. Dabke is a popular dance in Levantine countries like Palestine, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan.
Elkurd (pictured, left) first taught attendees about the traditions surrounding Dabke, a dance that is popular at celebrations including weddings, graduations, and more, and then he showed attendees a few videos of people from Palestine dancing Dabke. Then, attendees learned the basic steps and tried it for themselves.
Elkurd said that he planned the event because Dabke is one of the most important cultural forms of art in Palestine. At the event, he talked about where Dabke originated from and the traditional songs and music played to dance Dabke. He also mentioned that the dance signifies the aspirations and struggles of the Palestinian people since 1948. When Palestinians dance Dabke, it unites them.
Want to learn more about Palestine or the other countries, cultures, and languages represented in the World Languages and Cultures? Come to the TA Talks (meal provided & registration required):
Spain, Palestine, and Taiwan
Thursday, March 31
11:30 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
https://bit.ly/2022tatalk1
Japan, Germany, and France
Thursday, April 28th
4:30-6:00 P.M.
https://bit.ly/2022TATalk2
If you have any questions about the World Languages and Cultures Department’s Arabic program or are interested in learning about other cultural events offered by the department, be sure to check out the department’s Instagram, Facebook and Twitter or email Hannah Jackson at hannah.jackson@scranton.edu.
Students Learn Palestinian Cultural Dance
Jeff Gingerich, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at The University of Scranton, has been named the 22nd president of St. Bonaventure University.
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Gingerich on this fitting recognition of the leadership, innovation and devotion to mission that we have come to appreciate during his tenure at Scranton,” said Rev. Joseph Marina, president of The University of Scranton in a message to the University community about the announcement. “On a personal level, I cannot thank Jeff enough for his wise counsel, steadfast support and friendship throughout my own transition and during this first year with you. … I look forward to remaining colleagues in Catholic higher education and wish him and St. Bonaventure every success in the coming years.”
St. Bonaventure announced the appointment to their campus at noon today. Dr. Gingerich will continue to serve at Scranton through June 1, 2022. He will assume duties as the president of St. Bonaventure on June 20.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the opportunity I’ve been given to join the Bonaventure community,” said Dr. Gingerich. “I have always had such deep respect and admiration for the Franciscans. Their humility, reflection and sense of community are fundamental in the way I strive to live my life.”
“Seldom in life do you see so many points of interest intersect on one conclusion, but in this case, all facets of the university community converged on a singular belief – that Jeff should be our next president,” said John Sheehan, chair of St. Bonaventure’s board of trustees, in a press release announcing the appointment.
St. Bonaventure Trustee Deb Henretta, who co-chaired the search committee, said, “Jeff is mission-driven, he’s student-centered and he’s a caring, empowering leader.”
Dr. Gingerich joined Scranton as provost and senior vice president of academic affairs in 2018. He served as Scranton’s acting president for four months after the death of the Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., who passed away March 10, 2021.
During the pandemic, Dr. Gingerich helped guide the University through unprecedented transitions to online and hybrid formats before returning to fully in-person instruction. A consistent voice for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, Dr. Gingerich advanced new initiatives and programs at Scranton related to faculty hiring and development, staff and administrator training, curricular improvements and student support and engagement. He also led Scranton’s most recent accreditation review by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and led the University’s planning efforts, which culminated in a new Strategic Plan. His tenure included a renewed focus on securing federal support for research and sponsored programs. An avid supporter of student-centered program growth, Dr. Gingerich led the University’s strategic enrollment planning and worked with faculty to develop successful new undergraduate and graduate programs.
Prior to his role as provost at Scranton, Dr. Gingerich spent nearly 20 years at Cabrini University in suburban Philadelphia, teaching in the Department of Sociology and Criminology and serving as their provost and vice president for academic affairs.
Dr. Gingerich earned master’s and doctoral degrees in sociology from the University of Pennsylvania and a bachelor’s degree in social work from Eastern Mennonite College.
Additional information can be seen in St. Bonaventure’s press release announcing Dr. Gingerich’s appointment.
Father Marina’s video congratulations to Dr. Gingerich can be seen here.
Provost Named St. Bonaventure University President
Whether your future career aspirations lie in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, podiatry, optometry or other doctoral health professions, The University of Scranton’s pre-medical and pre-health professions programshave an established tradition of success in guiding students through the complex application process and preparing them for the rigorous curriculum of doctoral health programs.
Of the more than 1,200 applicants to doctoral health professions schools over the past 20 years, nearly 80% of Scranton students were accepted to schools of medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, podiatry, optometry and pharmacy, which is well-above the national acceptance rate. In addition, well over half of Scranton’s successful applicants in the past 10 years have received more than one acceptance.
Resources in place at Scranton help inform and guide students through their undergraduate years in preparation for the medical school application process. Resources include the student-run Health Professions Organization, where guest speakers and alumni present on topics such as medical ethics and navigating the professional school application process. Additionally, students can seek out advice and assistance from Scranton alumni through the University’s Medical Alumni Council at any of its various events, including the Medical Alumni Symposium that pre-health professional students can attend for free.
With Faculty-Student Research and Teaching Mentorship programs, service through the Edward Leahy Jr. Center Clinic for the Uninsured and tutoring opportunities through the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, Scranton pre-professional students also have plenty of opportunities to gain hands-on experience beyond a classroom setting.
As one of seven undergraduate institutions participating in the nationally recognized Jefferson Medical College Physician Shortage Area Program, Scranton’s program works to recruit students interested in practicing medicine in underserved rural areas as well.
Additional information about the University’s pre-medical and pre-health professions programs is available on Scranton’s website.
Pre-med Program at Scranton Has History of Success
Area students in grades five to 12 can participate in The University of Scranton’s Earth Day Essay Contest 2022. The contest is offered free of charge and this year’s essay theme is “We Are All Connected.” Topics students can write about include conservation, recycling, healthy eating, agriculture, renewable energy, eliminating single use containers, bees, gardening or transportation, among other subjects.
Essays for students in grades five and six must be between 200 to 400 words. Essays for students in grades seven and eight must be between 300 to 500 words. Essays for students in grades nine to 12 must be between 500 to 700 words. Electronic submissions must be sent to susan.falbo@scranton.edu on or before Monday, April 4. Mail-in entries must be postmarked on or by April 1 to be considered and can be sent to: The University of Scranton, Office of Sustainability, Smurfit Arts Center, 445 Madison Avenue, Scranton, PA 18510, Attn: Earth Day Essay Contest.
Visit the University’s Sustainability website for complete submission rules and details.
Winners of the Earth Day Essay Contest will be announced by the University’s Sustainability Office and student Sustainability and Conservation Society at an Evening of Environmental Science program for participants and their families and teachers on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, beginning at 6 p.m., in the atrium of the Loyola Science Center on campus.
Earth Day Essay Contest for Grades 5 to 12 Open
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton addressed the crisis happening in the Ukraine in an Ash Wednesday message sent to the University community on March 2.
“Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine last week, we have watched with anguish and deep concern as violence and turmoil unfold in eastern Europe. On this Ash Wednesday, I ask the entire University community to answer the call of Pope Francis to devote ourselves to prayer and fasting for peace today. May we also heed his powerful words: ‘May the weapons fall silent. God is with the peacemakers, not with those who use violence. ... It is the people who are the real victims, who pay for the folly of war with their own skin.’ Let us pray for the Ukrainian people, especially those trapped in the midst of violence and those who are now refugees seeking shelter abroad. Let us be inspired by the courage of Ukrainians as they seek to preserve their freedom and fledgling democracy, and by Russians risking their safety to protest against the war,” wrote Father Marina in the message. He also mentioned the Russian invasion of Ukraine in a Women’s History Month reflection sent to the University community on March 1.
Since Feb. 26, the Ukraine flag has been lit on the University’s three-story, Class of 2020 Gateway sign to “show our thoughts and prayers are with the Ukrainian people, as we join with others across the world to pray peace and freedom are restored to their country and their people once again,” the University said in a statement.
In addition, University professors have discussed the ongoing situation with news reporters, including this WNEP-TV story featuring interviews with Gretchen J. Van Dyke, Ph.D., associate professor and acting chair of the Political Science Department, and Sean Brennan, Ph.D., professor of history; and this WNEP-TV interview with Konstantin Lyavdansky, who teaches Russian at the University’s World Languages and Cultures Department.
University Responds to Ukraine Invasion
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague’s accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!
THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for March 2022 is: Michael Ridder - Physical Plant HVAC!
We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Michael does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Michael and all our March nominees.
How long have you worked at the University?
I have worked at the university for 5 years.
What do you like best about your job?
I enjoy working with the great knowledgeable group of tradesmen we have here, which helps me better what I do in my profession.
What do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy spending time with my son and wife.
Michael will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University foodservice outlets, as well as a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavillon for the month of March. Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition event in May to receive a certificate of appreciation. We congratulate Michael and all the other nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees.
March 2022:
Tom Cody - IT Services
Karl Johns - Technology Support Center
Glen Pace - IT Client Services
Barbara Kreidler - Library
Lynn Pelick - ORAS
Antonelle Kern - Admissions
Stephanie Adamec - CHEW
Adam Szydlowski - KSOM Advising
Kevin Stanford - KSOM Advising
Karen Marx - KSOM Advising
Karl Johns - TSC
Thomas Cody-Infrastructure/Security Services
Michael Ridder, Physical Plant HVAC
Announcing the March 2022 Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award Winner
Opening weekend for The University of Scranton Players’ performance of “A Good Farmer” by Sharyn Rothstein, directed by West Scranton native Bob E. Gasper, was a success despite snow on its opening night.
Rothstein’s “A Good Farmer” is a timely drama that deftly approaches multiple perspectives of issues regarding immigration and social justice in America. With dozens of people in attendance, a talk-back focusing on immigration and people’s experiences led by José Sanchez, assistant director for the Cross-Cultural Center and Ashley Walker, GA for the Cross-Cultural Center, was held following the Friday, Feb. 25 performance (pictured below).
If you missed the performances on Feb. 25, 26 and 27, the play will run again March 4-6 in the Royal Theatre of the McDade Center for the Literary and Performing Arts on the University’s campus. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8 p.m., and the Sunday performance begins at 2 p.m. The talk-back with Maria Marinucci, director of the Cross-Cultural Center, will occur after the Saturday, March 5 performance.
“A Good Farmer” is the story of two women -- a farm owner and her unlikely best friend, an undocumented Mexican immigrant – fighting to survive in a small town divided by America’s immigration battle. The play “brings the much-needed sense of humanity to the issue of immigration and addresses many of the moral questions we face …This is an important piece of theatre,” according to a 2018 review by Broadway World. The play, laced with humor, is about love, friendship, and finding the power to face what divides us.
The cast features Seraphina Stager, Lincoln, Rhode Island; Ariana Flores, Springfield, New Jersey; Nick Baranosky, Stevensville, Maryland; Keenan Beveridge, Warminster; Samantha Gurn, Brackney; and Olivia Raineri, Shirley, New York; in addition to Bridget Fry, Allentown, New Jersey; and Matt Valunas, Scranton; who are also assistant stage managers for the production. Also assisting with the production are Samantha Burton, Jamesville, New York, stage manager; Zainab Shah, Hellertown, assistant stage manager; Gillian Williams-Mayers, Scranton, assistant director and props coordinator; Kelsey Bennet, Orangeville, costume coordinator; Kit Karpiak, Scranton, sound counsel operator; and Isabelle Oister, Pottstown, lighting console operator.
The University’s production of “A Good Farmer” is being co-produced by The Jesuit Center.
For tickets, contact the University Players box office at 570-941-4318 or visit thescrantonplayers.com. (or did you want to use 570-941-4353 or email players@scranton.edu) Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for senior citizens, students and University of Scranton faculty and staff. Second weekend performances are free for first-year students at the University.
Audience members are required to follow the University’s health and safety guidelines, which currently include wearing higher-grade masks (N95, KN95, KF94 or double masking) indoors. The University’s health and safety information will be updated throughout the semester and can be seen on the Royals Back Together webpage.
For more information, contact players@scranton.edu or visit the University Players on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
University Players Hold Successful Talk-Back on Opening Night
Applications for Pi Gamma Mu, the International Honor Society in Social Sciences, are now being accepted.
Established in 1924, Pi Gamma Mu is the oldest social science honor society. 'The mission of Pi Gamma Mu is to encourage and promote excellence in the Social Sciences and to uphold and nurture scholarship, leadership, and service. Pi Gamma Mu serves the various social science disciplines which seek to understand and explain human behavior and social relationships as well as their related problems and issues.'
To learn more, visit Pi Gamma Mu - International Honor Society in Social Sciences.
You may submit your application by:
- obtaining a hard copy in the Psychology Department (Alumni Memorial Hall room 200) and submitting in-person
- emailing donna.rupp@scranton.edu, or
- submitting online here
- Must have completed a minimum of 45 credit hours
- Top 35% of class -- Overall GPA of at least 3.66
- Earned a grade of “B” or better in seven GRADED courses in any combination of Economics, History, Human Services, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology
- AP and TC courses are not considered for eligibility
Applications must be returned by March 23.
Source: Pi Gamma Mu - International Honor Society in Social Sciences pigammamu.org
Social Sciences Honor Society Application Deadline Mar. 23
Gretchen J. Van Dyke, Ph.D., associate professor and acting chair of the Political Science Department at The University of Scranton, was recently selected to serve as a member on both the Lilly Fellows Program National Network Board and the Friendship House Board of Directors.
Dr. Van Dyke will undertake her second four-year term on the Lilly Fellows Program National Network Board beginning this April. The organization seeks to enhance the character of church-related institutions of learning through the promotion of Christian leadership, teaching, scholarship, and interaction with similar institutions. The University of Scranton first became a member of the Lilly Network in 1996, and Dr. Van Dyke has served as the University’s faculty representative to the Lilly Fellows Program since 2000. The University also hosted the Lilly Fellows Program National Conference in 2013, at which Dr. Van Dyke served as the conference chair. From 2016-2019, she served as a mentor for the 9th cohort of the Lilly’s Graduate Fellows Program.
Dr. Van Dyke began her three-year term on the Friendship House Board of Directors in January 2021. Founded by a local group of women in 1871, the organization originally sought to care for the poor and “friendless” women and children of Scranton. It has since expanded, now serving adults with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities, as well as families and their children with autism, emotional difficulties, behavioral difficulties, and/or trauma. As a board member, Dr. Van Dyke will apply her knowledge in the areas of social justice and humanitarianism to assist those with such needs within the Scranton and surrounding communities.
Dr. Van Dyke also recently received a Provost award from the University. Her award, the “Excellence in Advancing Global Learning Award,” recognizes faculty members who have demonstrated remarkable academic leadership in integrating international issues and perspectives into the curriculum. In 2013 she was recognized with a Provost Award for “Excellence in Integrating Mission and Justice into the Curriculum.”
Dr. Van Dyke joined the political science faculty at Scranton in 1994. In addition to teaching courses related to international relations and American government, she has also taught and developed courses that address contemporary questions of war and peace, social justice and humanitarianism.
Dr. Van Dyke earned her bachelor’s degree from Trinity College in Washington D.C. Later, following three years of work in the House of Representatives on Capitol Hill, she completed her master’s degree and Ph.D. in foreign affairs at the University of Virginia.
Professor Named Member of Two Boards
Each week, University of Scranton students will use the two kitchens of a newly dedicated Rev. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., House on Clay Avenue to prepare 100 meals for area residents in need. In another room, students will crochet hats and blankets, many of which will be given to the homeless in our area.
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, blessed the house at a ceremony that will be used for some of the many student volunteer programs offered by the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice that allow students to put their faith into action each day.
“Since day one, my first day here on campus last June, I have been marveling at the great work these students do,” said Father Marina at the March 1st dedication. “We know how challenging going to college can be, especially these days. In addition to that, to find not only the time, but to find it in your heart to give of so much time, energy and passion to keep this Center going and to feed so many and to affect so many people for the good is just a marvelous thing.”
The house was dedicated in honor of Father Arrupe, the 28th Superior General of the Society of Jesus (1963 to 1983), who is now in the process toward beatification and canonization by the Roman Catholic Church. His profound belief in justice informed his understanding of the goal of Jesuit education, saying “our prime educational objective must be to form men and women for others; men and women who will live not for themselves but for God and his Christ.”
In his remarks at the dedication ceremony, Rev. Herbert B. Keller, S.J., vice president for Mission and Ministry, said Father Arrupe “was a man of great spiritual depth who made it his life’s work to educate women and men to serve others – an ideal that now guides Jesuit institutions across the world. Considered by many as the “second founder” of the Society of Jesus, Father Arrupe revolutionized the Society’s mission towards a service of faith that requires the promotion of justice … May the Arrupe House be a reminder to us every day on this campus of our obligation to be men and women for others.”
The Arrupe House will provide space for the We Care Meal program, for which students prepare 100 meals weekly. The meals include a main course, side, drink, dessert and handmade card. Students volunteer to make, package and deliver the meals to the Community Intervention Center, Friends of the Poor, as well as to families living in low income housing developments such as Valley View Terrace, Bangor Heights, Hilltop and Jackson Terrace. The house also provides space for the Craft for a Cause program through which students make cards, crochet items, jewelry and other crafts that are donated to the Catherine McAuley Center and Friends of the Poor. The building also houses EFFORT, which is a program that collects non-perishable food items, and the Royal Restore Food Pantry that can be accessed by students or University community members in need. The Arrupe House also has additional group meeting spaces for students working with other Center for Service and Social Justice programs.
Also speaking at the dedication ceremony were: Patricia Vaccaro, director of the Center for Service and Social Justice; Shannon Everton, a 2021 graduate of the University from Sykesville, Maryland, who is currently pursuing her master’s degree in occupational therapy and is the graduate assistant for The Center for Service and Social Justice; and Brandon Dagrosa, a health administration major from Hazle Township and a work study student for The Center for Service and Social Justice.
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The University of Scranton women's basketball team captured a seventh straight Landmark Conference title with a 68-51 victory over Catholic, while three members of The University of Scranton men's and women's track and field teams won gold medals at the Landmark Indoor Championships.
For more on that and the rest of the week that was in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Landmark Title; Record-Breaking Performances Highlight Big Week for Royals
After a year restricted to virtual events due to COVID-19, the World Language & Culture Department event returned! To welcome the arrival of the Chinese Lunar New Year, Chun-Sheng Su, a Chinese instructor from Taiwan, held a paper-cutting activity and presented the culture of red envelopes, the meaning of fish, and how people celebrate the Lunar New Year in China. Also, he showed a wealth of paper-cutting works.
Paper-cutting is a traditional Chinese arts and crafts product. "Paper-cutting," as the name suggests, is a form of folk art in which patterns are cut or carved on a piece of paper to decorate objects or decorate traditional folk festivals and activities. Visually, it gives a transparent feeling and artistic enjoyment. Chinese paper-cut art, through a pair of scissors and a piece of paper, can express all kinds of joys, sorrows and joys in life. For beginners, it is very beneficial to know the steps of making paper cuttings.
People from different places learned about how the Lunar New Year is celebrated in China, the history of red envelopes, and how to make Chinese paper cutting art. The event started at 7 p.m. in Leahy Hall 235. Under Professor Su's guidance, students, faculty and staff used the red envelopes, made lanterns and goldfishes.
“I felt satisfied and accomplished because all participants completed these two artworks. They not only learned the symbol of lantern and fish but also had self-made decorations at home for the Lunar New Year,” said Su.
Want to learn more about Taiwan or the other countries, cultures, and languages represented in the World Languages and Cultures? Come to the TA Talks (meal provided & registration required):
Spain, Palestine, and Taiwan
Thursday, March 31
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
https://bit.ly/2022tatalk1
Japan, Germany, and France
Thursday, April 28
4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
https://bit.ly/2022TATalk2
If you have any questions about the World Languages and Cultures Department’s Chinese program or are interested in learning about other cultural events offered by the department, be sure to check out the department’s Instagram, Facebook and Twitter or email Hannah Jackson at hannah.jackson@scranton.edu
Lunar New Year Celebrated With Chinese Paper Cutting
The 12th annual Shamrockin’ Eve will return to the Byron Center Friday, March 11, at 8:30 p.m.
The event will unite alumni from the classes of 2018-2021 with current seniors to celebrate one of Scranton's favorite traditions. Featuring food, drinks, a DJ, a photo booth, and a sea of green t-shirts, Shamrockin’ Eve will truly be a night to remember.
Alumni can register online through Friday, March 11, at 9 a.m.; alumni may also register as walk-ins at the event for $40. Seniors must register online for $30 by March 11 at 9 a.m. as senior walk-ins will not be admitted. To see a list of registrants, visit this link. All attendees must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, and the event will follow the health and safety protocols outlined in the Royals Back Together plan, which are subject to change. This year, $5 of every registration fee will benefit THR!VE, a program that enhances the experiences of Scranton students who identify as first-generation college students by providing scholarships and general support.
In 2009, the University held its first Shamrockin' Eve. The event was founded after a group of young alumni who wanted to reconnect with Scranton and each other prior to their five-year class reunion met with the late Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., the University’s 24th and 27th president, at Chapman Lake. It quickly evolved into an opportunity for current seniors and recent graduates to contribute to the success of future University students.
For more information, visit scranton.edu/shamrock or contact Jenna Bruchalski, program manager for Alumni Engagement, at jenna.bruchalski@scranton.edu.
Shamrockin' Eve Returns March 11
Join the World Languages and Cultures Department at the 2022 TA Talks. These events feature the department’s Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistants and Visiting Instructors from around the world who come to the University of Scranton to teach their languages. This is an opportunity to hear their unique perspectives on their home countries and cultures.
These events will take place in Brennan 509 and meals will be provided. Registration is required for each. Open to students, faculty, and staff.
Spain, Palestine, and Taiwan
Thursday, Mar. 31
11:30 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
Register here.
Featuring Julia Illarramendi, Spanish Fulbright Teaching Assistant from Pamplona, Spain, Belal Elkurd, Arabic Fulbright Teaching Assistant from Gaza, Palestine, and Chun-Sheng (Peter) Su, Chinese visiting instructor from Taiwan
Japan, Germany, and France
Thursday, Apr. 28
4:30-6:00 P.M.
Register here.
Featuring Kentaro Fukube, Japanese visiting instructor from Osaka, Japan, Fabian Postert, German Fulbright Teaching Assistant from Goettingen, Germany, and Nawel Kahouaji, French Fulbright Teaching Assistant from Brest, France
If you have questions or suggestions for the program, please contact Hannah Jackson at hannah.jackson@scranton.edu. We look forward to seeing you there.
This program is sponsored by the World Languages and Cultures Department and a Diversity Initiatives Grant from the Office of Equity and Diversity. Contact Hannah Jackson at 570-941-4711 or hannah.jackson@scranton.edu with questions.
TA Talks Spring 2022
The Alumni Society of The University of Scranton will hold its annual Day of Service Saturday, April 23. Register today for the following service projects:
Massachusetts
Boston - Cradles to Crayons, 10 a.m. - noon
Click here to register
New Jersey
Hillside - Community Food Bank of New Jersey, 9 - 11 a.m.
Click here to register
New York
New York City - Cardinal Spellman Center-Meatloaf Kitchen, 7:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Click here to register
Pennsylvania
Harrisburg - Central PA Food Bank, 9 a.m. - noon (THIS SITE WILL BE VOLUNTEERING ON APRIL 9)
Click here to register
Jefferson Township (NEPA) - Jefferson Elementary School, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Click here to register
Philadelphia - Cradles to Crayons, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Click here to register
Washington, D.C.
Alexandria, Virginia - Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 10 a.m. - noon
Click here to register
If you are interested in hosting a service project in your region, please email alumni@scranton.edu information on volunteer opportunities within your community by March 11.
No service site in your region?
Volunteer in your community Saturday, April 23 and tell us about! Download and print this Scranton sign and send a picture or email us the information at alumni@scranton.edu.
Register Today for the Day of Service April 23
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Lauren LiCalzi Lavelle ’03, Glen Head, New York, was honored as the 2020 Essential Worker of the Year by Garden City New York Media as a 6th grade Science teacher at Garden City Middle School. In addition to teaching, Lavelle is also the head field hockey coach at Garden City High School, where she led the team to the state finals in 2021 after winning both the Nassau County and Long Island Class B Championships and recorded an undefeated regular season. As a result of her efforts, Newsday named Lauren the 2021 Nassau County coach of the year.
Stephanie Ann Berry ’08, Mount Juliet, Tennessee, was recently tenured and promoted to associate professor at Tennessee Technological University. Berry currently serves in the role of interim-chairperson in the Department of Counseling and Psychology.
Megan Byers Apostol ’11, River Edge, New Jersey, has been promoted to director of Marketing at DMR Architects. During her decade at DMR, Apostol has raised DMR Architects’ reputation through publicity initiatives, print and digital communications, and marketing initiatives highlighting its talented team and diverse practice capabilities. She is responsible for securing architectural and real estate industry awards for DMR, including NJBIZ Best Place to Work, and prestigious awards for team members including the ICON award and inclusion in influencer lists in ROI_NJ and NJBiz.
WEDDINGS
John Paul Castellano ’05 to Kimberly Synarski
Chris Quinn ’11 to Elizabeth Beaty
Cristina Pontoriero ’13 to Jeffrey Currie ’12
Allison Nagy '15, G'16 to Sean Scully '15, G'18
BIRTHS
A daughter, Molly Rose, to Robert and Elizabeth Pulice Wideman, VMD. ’10, Harleysville
A daughter, Sophia Brooke, to Stephen ’12 and Sarah Phillips Fernando ’12, Dunmore
A daughter, Marissa, to Jimmy ’13 and Nicole Clemson Mirra ’13, Bowie, Maryland
DEATHS
John J. Corcoran, M.D. ’57, Lancaster
Martin R. Hanczyc ’61, Duryea
Kenneth J. Wandalowski ’61, Taylor
Paul A. Suche ’63, Eynon
Branimir M. Rieger, Ph.D. ’64, Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Joseph J. Zukoski, Jr., D.D.S. ’64, New Orleans, Louisiana
Joseph A. Lacomare ’67, Salisbury Township
Thomas A. Pepe ’76, Lansdale
Nathan Warshawsky ’80, Scranton
Matthew M. Reavy, Ph.D. ’84, Trucksville
Brian P. Sullivan ’90, Taunton, Massachusetts
Michael A. Freiman, M.D. ’94, Port Matilda, Florida
FRIENDS' DEATHS
Teresa Iannielli, mother of Nicholas W. Iannielli ’92, G’04 and Francis M. Iannielli ’93
Alumni Class Notes, March 2022
The Clothes Line For Men is a satellite of Scranton’s Friends of the Poor initiative, which individuals with the company of a sponsor, can come pick out clothing and hygienic supplies to use for getting back into the workplace. This initiative, facilitated with the support of The University of Scranton’s Center for Service and Social Justice, offers a needed service for men in the Scranton community.
University of Scranton coordinator of Local Service & Community Outreach Lynn Gavin said that there is clothing available for men working in all different types of fields.
“We offer anything from full suits and belts to Dickies pants and work boots,” Gavin said. “We even offer things such as underwear and socks, which we really need more of.”
The Clothes Line also offers fitting rooms for individuals to try things on before walking out, along with complimentary gift bags with each order which include essential items such as razors, socks, underwear and other items.
“Those who shop at the Clothes Line for Men do so by filling out an application, which is then approved by us and a sponsor,” Gavin said. “These individuals can then fill out exactly what they are looking for on a sheet and our volunteers will put the order together for them so it is ready for them to pick up.”
According to Gavin, the service originally offered in-store shopping hours like a department store, but due to COVID-19 concerns, it had to put that service to a halt.
“Sometimes it gets cluttered here with so many bags, but with the help of student volunteers we are able to get organized quickly as new donation bags come in almost daily,” Gavin said. “We were receiving so much stuff, that we had to acquire another house, which, conveniently, is right next door.”
Aside from putting together orders, volunteers also assist in going through donation bags that are dropped off on the porch in garbage bags.
“I tell my volunteers, 'If you wouldn’t wear it then get rid of it,'" Gavin said.
Gavin said she is grateful for the opportunity to take charge of the newly acquired buildings to use for the service just outside of campus on Linden Street across from the University’s Linden apartments.
“This is a dream job for me. I have volunteered and done community work my whole life, and after working at the university for 27 years, I think this is perfect,” she said.
The concept of the service was developed over eight years ago by a duo of women who used the house to run their operation in giving underprivileged men proper clothing to either get back in the workforce after being in prison or immigrants to the area among other situations according to Gavin.
She said that students really seem to enjoy volunteering at the clothesline. Nursing major Abbey Knight ‘23 said that although she has completed the required service hours for her program, this isn’t the end of volunteering for her.
“I love it so much I’m going to come back even after my hours are done,” Knight said.
Some students are using their opportunity at the Clothes Line for Men to help those in need and bring joy to others. Senior occupational therapy major Erin Grell '22 said those who have the time should volunteer.
“As humans, we have an obligation to help each other and bring good into the world,” Grell said.
Students who would like to volunteer for The Clothes Line For Men can expect to work in shifts that are flexible for students schedules. As of now, shifts start at 1 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays and end at 3 p.m. The first shift unbags and the second fill orders.
For those looking to donate, high-demand items the Clothes Line is looking for include: sneakers, work boots and underwear. The Clothes Line averages around 12-15 orders per week consisting of over 15 individual items in each order.
Other services offered by the Friends Of The Poor at the Clothes Line For Men are arts and crafts and freshly cooked meals and baked goods on-site.
University of Scranton students interested in volunteering for Clothes Line For Men can sign up here.
Sign-ups are released monthly so keep on the lookout.
Community members interested in accessing services offered by the Clothes Line for Men can contact the Friends of the Poor at 570-348-4429 or email clothesline@fotp-ihm.org for more information.
Clothes Line for Men Offers Remote Services
Can’t bring yourself to leave Scranton? Spend summer as an Event Assistant!
Each summer, Conference & Event Services hires a student staff that plays an integral role in welcoming our guests and making sure they feel at home while they are on campus. Over the course of the summer, we will host roughly 5,000 guests with conferences and camps ranging from the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference, which has been with us for over 30 years, to athletic camps such as PGC Basketball and Universal Cheer Association and Universal Dance Association.
This position provides an excellent learning opportunity for Event Assistants to work on their customer service, time management, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. Housing is available if needed, and meals are often provided. While this is a work-study position, if you are interested and don’t currently have work-study, we can help you through the process.
A full job description, application, and contact information can be found on scranton.edu/conferences.
Now Hiring Event Assistants for Summer 2022
This Thursday, March 3, the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project is launching its “I am Scranton” social media campaign. This campaign will highlight various Scrantonians by sharing a part of their “Scranton Story” across the project’s social media platforms. This campaign is a part of the project’s oral history project, a multitiered story gathering effort that is collecting stories in various formats throughout the duration of the project.
Started in the fall of 2021, the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project is an effort led by The University of Scranton with multiple community-partners and supported by a generous grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to explore Scranton’s history, culture and role in the nation at large. This project aims to tell the story of our nation through the lens of Scranton, Pennsylvania, through eight project themes each focusing on a vital thread of the tapestry of this city and nation. A key component of capturing this story is amplifying the voices, experiences, and ideas of the people of Scranton, both those that live here today and those that have important connections to our city.
The “I am Scranton” social media campaign is the first part of the project’s story-gathering effort. To participate, follow the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project on Facebook and Instagram @ourscrantonstory and on Twitter @scrantonstory. Each week a new “Scranton Story” profile will be released. Community members, alumni, and anyone with a connection to Scranton are encouraged to follow along and create their own post to share a part of their “Scranton Story” using the hashtag #IAmScranton. Project team members will be reposting and sharing stories with this hashtag.
The “I am Scranton” social media profiles were collected with the support of students in two community-based learning (CBL) communications courses. In the fall of 2021, students in communications faculty member Dr. Brian Snee’s COMM 240 Research Methods course worked to collect and format the initial set of “I am Scranton” interviews and also to design the accompanying social media graphics.
"The 'I am Scranton' social media project offered communication and media majors an exciting opportunity to do real work for a real client. That the project was about the history and residents of a great city that we all share and love was indeed a wonderful bonus. We can't wait to see the final product!" said Dr. Snee.
During this spring semester, students in Communications faculty Dr. Kimberly Pavlick’s COMM 224 Media Writing course are working to research and produce additional profiles that will be added to the “I am Scranton” campaign starting in April 2022. Pavlick said having students participate in community-based learning takes them off campus and into the community, which is valuable training, particularly since many of us have been siloed in our own social circles during the pandemic.
"Learning to talk to people you don't know and genuinely taking an interest in them allows students to learn and grow in a different way from traditional class learning. We learn from every person we interact with," Pavlick said.
Offering students an opportunity to further engage with the city of Scranton and its people has proved to be a rewarding experience for students supporting the "I am Scranton" campaign. In addition to the work by students in CBL Communications courses, James Leonard '22, communications intern in the Office of Community and Government Relations is working to finalize profiles and support the social media release of the campaign.
"I think it is a great privilege to be able to work on a project like this. During my four years here, I have always tried to embrace the Scranton community and I have learned that the people here are extremely passionate about their city are seeing it grow. Even during the short time I've lived in the city, I have seen it make so much progress and based on what the people I've worked with throughout this project have said, they see the same and will continue to work hard to make that vision a reality." said James Leonard.
In addition to the social media campaign, there is also an online submission form that can be found on the project's website where users can submit their Scranton Story in multiple formats. This online form offers a chance to share your story in a short statement, in a face or place via photo upload, in a clip via video upload, or in a “Dear Scranton,” letter. Submissions to this form may be shared to the Oral Histories page on the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” website and will also be shared on the project’s social media pages.
“Through this project, we want to honor and share the experiences and perspectives of many different Scrantonians. We have been inspired by Colum McCann, the Irish-American author who has visited Scranton on different occasions, who says, ‘The one true democracy we have is storytelling. It goes across borders, boundaries, genders, wealth, race -- everyone has a story to tell,’” said Julie Schumacher Cohen, assistant vice president for Community Engagement and Government Affairs and the Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story project director.
In addition to the social media campaign and online submission form, additional storytelling opportunities will continue throughout the duration of the project. These efforts include pop-up story collection opportunities that will take place at outdoor events and festivals during the summer of 2022 along with a series of spotlight stories that will be shared at the culmination of the project in the fall of 2023.
For more information about this project, please visit scranton.edu/scrantonstory.
To receive project updates and reminders, join the project email list by emailing community@scranton.edu
You can submit your own Scranton Story at www.scranton.edu/iamscranton
This project has been made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in these events do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story 'I Am Scranton' Campaign Launches
February
View February Listing Page
Note: Access to the campus is currently limited to members of the University community, invited guests and others as listed in the Royals Back Together plan. Campus access and other health and safety information will be updated throughout the semester and can be seen on the Royals Back Together webpage.
Mar. 1 5 p.m. Lecture with Q&A via Zoom - “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?” The event is part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project’s second theme, “The U.S. Citizen and the American Founding.” Registration required. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Mar. 3 noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “Linneaus’ Legacy: Corrupting Color to Serve Discrimination and Exploitation” presented by Kathy Johnson Bowles, executive director of the Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science and Art. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Mar. 3 4:30 p.m. Lecture on “The Future of Catholic Education: Challenges and Opportunities” by author Fr. James L. Heft, founding president of the Institute for the Advancement of Catholic Studies at the University of Southern California. Presented in honor of the Ignatian year, the lecture is hosted the Jesuit Center and the College of Arts and Sciences. Moskovitz Theater. Free. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu
Mar. 4-6 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. “A Good Farmer” by Sharyn Rothstein presented by The University Players, co-produced by The Jesuit Center. Royal Theater, McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. Ticket prices vary. Call 570-941-4353 or email players@scranton.edu.
Mar. 14 noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “A Remarkable Tale of Law, Politics, and Religion: The Making of Kiryas Joel, a Hasidic Town in Upstate New York” presented David N. Myers, Ph.D., Sady and Ludwig Kahn professor of Jewish history at UCLA and director of the UCLA Luskin Center for History and Policy, and Nomi Stolzenberg, founder and co-director of the USC Center for Law, History and Culture. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Mar. 21 through Apr. 29 Art Exhibit: “Shinnecock Sites and Portraits: Photographs by Jeremy Dennis.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Mar. 22 7 p.m. Public Dialogue on “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?” The event is part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project’s second theme, “The U.S. Citizen and the American Founding.” Registration required. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Mar. 23 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “General Recital” featuring The University of Scranton Performance Music students in solo, duo, trio and small ensemble performances. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Mar. 24 noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “Window Into the Presidency: The White House Tapes and Their Meaning” presented by Fredrik Logevall, Ph.D., Laurence D. Belfer Professor of International Affairs, Harvard University. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Mar. 26 9 a.m. Preview Day for accepted students to The University of Scranton’s class of 2026. Various locations on campus. Call 570-941-7540 or email admissions@scranton.edu.
Mar. 29 4 p.m. Jay Nathan Lecture Series: “Iceland: History, Culture, Environment” presented by Her Excellency, Ambassador Bergdís Ellertsdóttir of Iceland. Cultural performance and reception to follow. Moskovitz Theater, DeNaples Center. Free. Reservations encouraged. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Mar. 30 5 p.m. Lecture by Neal Thompson, author of “The First Kennedys.” Book signing immediately follows lecture. Moskovitz Theater, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-7561 or email david.dzurec@scranton.edu.
University Announces Planned March Events
The University of Scranton will relax masking requirements for students, faculty and staff on Monday, Feb. 28, the same date a vaccine booster requirement for those eligible becomes effective.
The University announced as of Feb. 28, higher-grade masks are optional indoors for fully-vaccinated and boosted members of the University community with the following exceptions: classrooms, laboratories, shared offices and campus liturgies. There, higher-grade masks (N-95, KN-95) or double masking is still required.
Members of the community who are unvaccinated or eligible but not boosted must wear higher-grade masks indoors throughout campus, as must invited guests who are on campus, regardless of their vaccination status. The University remains open only to students, faculty and staff and invited guests.
The University also announced proof of vaccination is no longer required for visitors to attend athletic events.
The full announcement can be seen on the Royals Back Together webpage.
University Updates Mask Policy
Learn about the history of Dabke, a popular folk dance from Palestine and many other Arab countries, and try the dance for yourself at the Palestinian Cultural Dance Class on Thursday, March 3.
Since 1948, the dance has become the voice of the voiceless and is a resounding statement of Palestinian identity, existence and resistance.
Thursday, March 3
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Collegiate Hall in Reddington Hall
Contact Hannah Jackson at hannah.jackson@scranton.edu or 570-941-4711 with questions.
Palestinian Cultural Dance Class, March 3
Join us on March 3 for the Schemel Forum World Affairs Seminar featuring Kathy Johnson Bowles, executive director of the Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science, and Art.
Linneaus’ Legacy: Corrupting Color to Serve Discrimination and Exploitation
Why did Hitler have a color-coding system in concentration camps? Why are color names like yellow and red associated with racial slurs? Arguably it started with Swedish botanist, zoologist and taxonomist Carl Linneaus (1707-1778), who formalized a system of naming organisms still used today. Bowles traces Linneaus’ legacy and its relationship to morally bankrupt views about race and gender through examples found in material culture.
Brennan Hall, Rose Room, 509 • Noon to 1:30 p.m.; streaming link will be emailed
More information is here.
Schemel Forum World Affairs Seminar, March 3
Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti announced the opening of applications for small business microgrants in the City of Scranton through an initiative for new businesses located in low-moderate-income demographic areas. The initiative includes educational programs and guidance offered by the Small Business Development Center at The University of Scranton.
These funds are awarded to the city through the Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program from the Housing and Urban Development Administration (HUD).
The CDBG Small Business Micro-Grant Program for new or early-stage businesses located in Scranton’s low-moderate-income demographic areas (LMA) will supply funds ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 per business through the 2022 year to assist with start-up costs, thus contributing to their initial success and continued revitalization of our community. New and newly established businesses are defined as businesses that opened within the last 12 months or are planning to open within nine months of application.
“We are pleased to be able to assist small businesses in the City of Scranton in partnership with the Small Business Development Center at The University of Scranton through the awarding of these microgrants. Small businesses are the heart and soul of our city, and the City of Scranton is grateful to be able to assist them,” said Mayor Cognetti at the news conference announcing opening for applications for the microgrants.
Final applications for the microgrants must include a referral form from the SBDC, available after completing the required educational program series and/or business consulting and demonstrating appropriate business planning in accordance with program guidelines.
Lisa Hall Zielinski, director of the SBDC at The University of Scranton, said the SBDC is pleased to be able to partner with the City of Scranton “on impactful programs like this one, focused on providing microgrants to newer small businesses in the low-moderate-income demographic areas of the City. … Furthermore, as part of our Catholic and Jesuit mission at the University, we devote ourselves to service to others and working with underserved populations is an important part of how we give back to the community, so this program is meaningful to us on many levels.”
The SBDC’s role in this microgrant program will be to walk entrepreneurs through all of the criteria as it pertains to their business, gather required documents, assemble financials, and prepare their applications for submission to the City. The SBDC will do this through a combination of one-on-one meetings and/or educational programming based on the individual’s needs.
The awarded grants can be used for inventory costs, procurement of machinery, furniture, fixtures, equipment, and Defined working/operating capital such as utilities, rent, business services (accounting, IT, website development).
Qualifying businesses can find an application on the City of Scranton website.
The SBDC at The University of Scranton is housed in the Kania School of Management.
Scranton Microgrant Program Partners with SBDC
The Latin American Studies program invites faculty, staff and students to view The Hands of Justice Latin American Film Series for spring 2022. All screenings will take place in the Pearne Auditorium, Brennan Hall 228.
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Feb. 24 @ 7 p.m.- No Mas Bebes/No More Babies tells the story of a little-known but landmark event in reproductive justice when a small group of Mexican immigrant women sued county doctors, the state, and the U.S. government after they were sterilized while giving birth at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
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Mar. 24 @ 7 p.m.- La odisea de los giles / Heroic Losers - In times of the infamous Argentinian Corralito, the neighbors of a little town trace a plan to recover the money they lost after learning that their bank manager and a corrupt lawyer have stolen it.
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Apr. 28 @ 7 p.m. - Democracia em Vertigem / The Edge of Democracy - A cautionary tale for these times of democracy in crisis, the personal and political fuse in The Edge of Democracy explores one of the most dramatic periods in Brazilian history. Combining unprecedented access to Presidents Lula da Silva and Dilma Rousseff with accounts of her own family's complex political and industrial past, filmmaker Petra Costa (Elena, 2012) witnesses their rise and fall and the tragically polarized nation that remains.
The Hands of Justice Features Latin American Film Series
The University of Scranton women's basketball team became the fourth team in program history to notch an unbeaten Landmark Conference season at 14-0, while the women's swimming and diving team notched a pair of major award winners at last week's Landmark Championship Meet.
For more on that and the week that was in Royal Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Women's Basketball, Women's Swimming and Diving Notch Major Landmark Feats
The Weinberg Memorial Library at The University of Scranton with host the 7th annual presentation in the Jay Nathan Ph.D. Visiting Scholar Lecture Series on Tuesday, March 29, 2022. The University will welcome distinguished guests Ambassador Bergdis Ellertsdottir, and classical violinist Eva Ingolfsdottir.
While visiting campus, the ambassador will present Iceland: History. Culture. Environment., to be followed by a cultural showcase featuring Icelandic music. The program begins at 4 p.m. in The Moskovitz Theater, The DeNaples Center, 4th floor.
A reception will follow. The event is free and open to the public through the generous support of Dr. Nathan. Reservations are encouraged at scranton.edu/jaynathanlecture
Icelandic Ambassador and Violinist Visit, March 29
The Jesuit Center will be offering a retreat this Lent based on the reflections given in the book given to us by the Irish Jesuits called Sacred Space for Lent.
Lent, a holy time of introspection and penance in preparation for the passion, death, Resurrection, and Ascension of Jesus Christ, can be further enriched with Sacred Space for Lent 2022. Sacred Space for Lent invites readers to develop a closer relationship with God during this season of prayer, fasting and almsgiving.
Throughout the Lenten season, each daily offering includes a Scripture reading and points of reflection, as well as a weekly topic enhanced by six steps of prayer and meditation. With its small size and meaningful message, Sacred Space for Lent is a simple way to build a richer relationship with God and embrace the Lenten season as a sacred space.
The Jesuit Center will also arrange and facilitate weekly faith sharing sessions for participants so that through our spiritual conversations we might come to see God’s hand moving more clearly in each participant’s life.
Please contact Fr. Patrick Rogers, S.J. if interested. All materials will be provided by The Jesuit Center.
Lenten Retreat for Faculty and Staff
On Saturday, Feb. 26 University of Scranton Occupational Therapy students are joining with staff from United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA (UNC) to conduct a block level assessment of the Pine Brook neighborhood. This block level assessment will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with University students and UNC staff going out in groups to gather data on the accessibility of the Pine Brook neighborhood to help identify the physical needs of the neighborhood, which will help inform UNCs Pine Brook neighborhood revitalization plan.
For the accessibility survey, first-year Occupational Therapy (OT) students from Dr. Patricia A. Wisniewski Ed.D., OTRL’s OT121: Occupational Performance courses will be joined by third-year students from Dr. Deborah E. Budash Ph.D.’s OT 340, Promoting Health and Wellbeing courses that will serve as mentors and guides on this project. Through this assessment, University of Scranton OT students will have hands-on experience navigating the Pine Brook neighborhood and viewing the physical features of the neighborhood through an occupational therapy lens, which will allow students to in turn make recommendations on how the area can best meet the needs of all residents and visitors. Focus areas will include walkability, landscape, and accessibility for people of diverse abilities.
"Working with future occupational therapists to conduct a street scaping survey is a great opportunity to get students to gain real-world perspectives in addition to their studies. Collecting and analyzing data is the foundation of creating community impact for positive change," said Holly Yorkonis, Pine Brook Elm Street Manager, UNC.
This partnership is a part of The University of Scranton’s Community-Based Learning (CBL) initiative, which incorporates course content and student learning outcomes to help address community-defined needs. Formally organized in 2016, the Office of Community-Based Learning works to facilitate CBL partnerships across Scranton offering University students new ways to connect to the Scranton area and engage with course content while learning from community-partners and working with them to address the shared needs and challenges of our city.
"This partnership will allow my first-year occupational therapy students the ability to apply knowledge and concepts learned in the classroom to address a societal need. In turn, the community will receive assessments results/suggestions through an occupational therapy perspective that supports occupational justice and anticipates the needs of all community residents," said Dr. Patricia A. Wisniewski Ed.D., OTRL.
"The Pine Brrok community assessment is a unique opportunity for our occupational therapy students to explore their understanding of how environments and contexts impact how people live -- the things they do and how they do them. I am grateful to UNC that we are able to help with this project," said Dr. Deborah E. Budash Ph.D.
In addition to supporting UNC’s block level assessment, another Occupational Therapy CBL course, Dr. Chandra Ann Nealon’s OT 231 Neuroanatomy of Function course, is partnering with the Pine Brook Revitalization project at the first-ever Pine Brook Community Arts Festival. This event will take place on Saturday, Apr. 30 from 12 – 4 p.m. At this inaugural community event, sophomores from Dr. Nealon’s course will host sensory art activities for kids as a part of the festival’s many offerings, including additional interactive arts projects, food vendors, and more.
"Being able to partner with UNC for their 1st ever community Arts Festival is an amazing opportunity for our sophomore OT students to utilize their studies of the neurological system and apply that knowledge to design and implement activities for the children and their families in the community. We are hoping this is the beginning of an annual project between UNC, The University of Scranton OT department and the Pine Brook community members," said Dr. Chandra Ann Nealon.
Community-based learning is an important way that University of Scranton students can forge strong relationships and collaborations within the community while enhancing their learning experiences through real-world applications of course content.
“Seeing our students become involved in and learning from the greater Scranton community while also utilizing the skills and knowledge from their courses here at The University of Scranton truly shows the importance of community-based learning. Through these experiences, I hope that our students feel that they are a part of our Scranton community,” said Carolyn M. Bonacci, community and civic engagement coordinator at The University of Scranton.
To learn more about UNC’s Pine Brook Revitalization Project and to get involved, please visit the Pine Brook Neighborhood Plan Facebook @pinebrookscranton.
To learn more about The University of Scranton’s Office of Community-Based Learning, please visit scranton.edu/CBL or email cbl@scranton.edu.
University OT Students to Support UNC’s Pine Brook Revitalization
In honor of the Ignatian year the Jesuit Center and the College of Arts and Sciences will be hosting Fr. James L. Heft, Alton M. Brooks Professor of Religion and founding president of the Institute for the Advancement of Catholic Studies at the University of Southern California. Fr. Heft is the author of the recent book The Future of Catholic Higher Education: The Open Circle.
His University presentation “The Future of Catholic Education: Challenges and Opportunities” is on Thursday, March 3, at 4:30 p.m. in the Moskovitz Theater. A cocktail reception for faculty and staff will follow his talk.
Fr. Heft joined the Marianists in 1961 and was ordained a priest in 1973. He earned his undergraduate degree in philosophy and education at the University of Dayton in Ohio and was a graduate student in philosophy at Georgetown University. In 1977, Fr. Heft earned a Ph.D. in history and theology from the University of Toronto in Canada. He then began a 30-year teaching career at the University of Dayton, serving six years as chair of the theology department, eight as provost and 10 as chancellor. A former chair of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities, Fr. Heft has written and edited over 12 books and nearly 200 book chapters and articles. In 2011, he was honored with the Theodore Hesburgh Award for long and distinguished service to Catholic higher education.
In The Future of Catholic Higher Education, Fr. Heft draws from his extensive experience to discuss the current state of Catholic higher education and what needs to be done to ensure that Catholicism isn't fazed out of the educational system. He analyzes the foundational intellectual principles of Catholic Higher Education, and both the strengths and weaknesses of the present-day system in order to look at possibilities for its future.
Faculty and Staff Invited: Fr. James L. Heft: The Future of Catholic Education: Challenges and Opportunities
The University of Scranton’s Sustainability Office has chosen the theme "We are all connected" for its spring initiative toward increasing sustainability. The theme was inspired by Pope Francis’ 2015 Encyclical letter "On Care for Our Common Home" in which he urges readers to take action to protect our Earth and all the life contained within it. Humanity’s connection to the Earth means that it is our responsibility to act in a way that will support and protect our environment.
The Sustainability Office is hosting several events during the Spring semester in conjunction with the Jesuit Center, Kania School of Management, Multicultural Center, Weinberg Memorial Library, Environmental Studies Concentration, Environmental Science Major, and the Society for Sustainability and Conservation in a collaborative effort to bring this action to University of Scranton’s Campus.
From Jan. 21 through Apr. 4, the Sustainability Office will be accepting submissions for their yearly Environmental Essay contest from 5th through 12th grades.
On Mar. 3 at 6:30 p.m.. in the Moskovitz Theatre, there will be a film screening of The Human Element, featuring filmmaker, James Balog. Also, on Mar. 22, there will be a celebration for World Water Day from 6-8 p.m. on the second-floor lobby of the DeNaples Center.
The month of April will have its own group of exciting events to engage students with sustainability. From Apr. 19 – 26, there will be an Environmental Art Show installation on the fifth floor of the Weinberg Memorial Library. On Apr.19, an Earth Day Fair will be held in the Loyola Science Center Lobby from 11 a.m..-1 p.m.; and, on Apr. 20, an Evening of Environmental Science event is scheduled in the Loyola Science Center Lobby from 6-8 p.m.
Guest speaker, Dr. Michael Mann, will present lecture on his book The New Climate War, April 21 to the DeNaples Center Ballroom at 7 p.m. to . The final event of April will be an art show address with artist Laura Kern, which will be on the 25 from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Loyola Science Center Lobby.
In May, the Sustainability Office will be hosting a three-hour kayaking trip on the Susquehanna River as the weather begins to warm up to get students outside and engaged with the environment. All of these events sponsored by the Sustainability Office and other campus-wide organizations help to connect our campus with the environment and encourage everyone to take action to preserve the Earth.
Celebrate Earth Day Every Day in Spring 2022
University of Scranton students, faculty and staff can learn about the ways in which different Asian cultures and traditions celebrate the Lunar New Year at the Asian New Year Festival and Workshop on Feb. 24. The program will include a chopstick competition and hands-on lessons on Chinese calligraphy and Japanese origami related to the Year of the Tiger. The workshop begins at 6 p.m. in the Rose Room of Brennan Hall.
Many Asian cultures celebrate the New Year differently, however, there is more consensus around the meaning of the tiger in the Chinese zodiac.
“The tiger is a symbol of courage and fortitude that wards off all evils,” said Ann Pang-White, Ph.D., director of Asian Studies and professor of philosophy at the University.
The evening event will include three presentations about Asia’s chopstick culture and the meaning of chopsticks, how new year is celebrated in Japan, and how it is celebrated in China and Taiwan. Instructors and students from the Japanese and Chinese classes will also assist with the hands-on portion of the workshop.
Seating is limited and registration is required to attend the event. University community members can register for the workshop here.
The workshop is co-sponsored by the departments of Asian Studies and World Languages and Cultures.
For additional information, contact Dr. Pang-White at ann.pang-white@scranton.edu or 570-941-6312. $content.getChild('content').textValueAsian Studies Workshop Celebrates Lunar New Year
The University of Scranton held a COVID-19 vaccine booster clinic for students, faculty and staff in the Byron Recreation Complex on Feb. 17. The clinic was organized by the University’s Center for Health Education and Wellness (CHEW), who partnered with Hometown Health Care of NEPA to administer the vaccines. Both Moderna and Pfizer vaccine boosters were available.
In addition to staff members of CHEW, 62 students, faculty and staff volunteered at the clinic, including 24 students enrolled in the University’s nursing program who helped to administer the vaccinations to nearly 350 University community members at the clinic.
The University initiated a vaccine requirement for students and employees who are on campus for the fall semester and approximately 97 percent of the University’s students, faculty and staff are already fully vaccinated. A booster requirement for those eligible goes into effect on Feb. 28. In accordance with Pennsylvania law, the University has granted waivers for the vaccine requirements to students and employees for religious or medical reasons. University community members who were granted a waiver participate in weekly PCR testing and follow other health and safety guidelines.
Booster Vaccination Clinic Held on Campus
The University of Scranton’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting program provides students with a nationally-recognized education and prestigious job opportunities after graduation with all Big Four accounting firms actively recruiting on campus.
Companies that have recently hired Scranton accounting graduates include: Deloitte, EY LLC, Grant Thornton, J.P. Morgan, PwC, KPMG and more.
More than 90% of Scranton accounting graduates obtain full-time employment in their field.
According to The University of Scranton’s First Destination survey for the Class of 2020, the average salary of a Scranton accounting graduate was $53,206.
Douglas Boyle, DBA, CPA, CMA, Doctorate Program Director, Department Chair and Associate Professor says, “In our close campus community, we know students on a first-name basis. Our faculty, staff and distinguished alumni work together for the success of our students.”
Every year, over 80% of Scranton accounting students participate in internships, including a unique experience at PwC where Scranton alum Linda McGowan ’80 built a nationwide internship program for Scranton students.
Entry-level career paths that graduates pursue with this degree are accounting manager, asset manager, auditor, budget analyst, controller and treasurer.
Prepare to Become a Respected Financial Leader
Seventeen University of Scranton education majors are serving as student teachers during the spring semester at nine local schools in the following seven school districts: Dunmore, Lackawanna Trail, Mid Valley, Mountain View, Riverside, Valley View, and Western Wayne.
The following is a list of undergraduate and graduate students who are serving as student teachers and the schools to which they have been assigned during the spring semester.
Abigail Allen of New Milford, Connecticut, will teach at Mid Valley Secondary Center;
Kayleigh Basovsky of Hillsdale, New Jersey, will teach at Dunmore Elementary Center;
Meghan Bode of Sparta, New Jersey, will teach at Evergreen Elementary School;
Destiny Carpitella of Brooklyn, New York, will teach at Lackawanna Trail Elementary Center;
Corinne Estes of Ivyland will teach at Dunmore Elementary Center;
Gillian Groom of Wantagh, New York, will teach at Evergreen Elementary School;
Shaelynn Guilfoyle of West Nyack, New York, will teach at Riverside Elementary School West;
Katheryn Hickey of South Huntington, New York, will teach at Valley View Intermediate;
Abigail Hoban of Scranton will teach at Mountain View Elementary School;
Margaret Kiess of Glen Rock, New Jersey, will teach at Riverside Jr./Sr. High School;
Jillian Odonnell of Levittown will teach at Riverside Jr./Sr. High School;
Calvin Ralph of Hillsdale, New Jersey, will teach at Mid Valley Secondary Center;
Emma Reed of Stratford, Connecticut, will teach at Riverside Jr./Sr. High School;
Christina Rombousek of Milford, will teach at Mid Valley Elementary Center;
Katherine Roughan of Oceanside, New York, will teach at Mid Valley Elementary Center;
Molly Skinner of Reading, Massachusetts, will teach at Dunmore Elementary Center;
Anna Van Wert of South Abington Township will teach at Riverside Jr./Sr. High School.University Student Teachers Begin at Area Schools
The University of Scranton’s University of Success, a four-year pre-college mentorship program, is now accepting applications for the upcoming 2022 academic year that begins this summer.
The University of Success is an academic and enrichment program funded entirely by corporate and foundations grants, so there is no charge to students and their families. The program's goal is to assist first generation bound students to successfully complete high school and gain entrance into a college or university.
Students who are currently in the eighth grade are eligible to apply.
Accepted students will begin the program with a two-week residential summer academy which will be held on the campus of The University of Scranton from July 10, to July 22. Upon completion of the summer program, the students will continue to meet for enrichment sessions during their high school career.
The deadline for submission of applications is Friday, April 1, 2022.
Applications may be obtained by emailing Margaret Loughney, University of Success program director, at margaret.loughney@scranton.edu. Applications may also be obtained online the University of Success web site.
University of Success Now Accepting Applications
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay for financial managers and financial analysts in 2020 was $131,180 and $83,660, respectively.
Housed in The University of Scranton’s AACSB-International accredited Kania School of Management, this Bachelor of Science degree prepares students for employment in the financial services industry with opportunities to participate in prestigious internships, faculty-mentored research and the CFA Investment Research Challenge. Career opportunities in this field include collateral analysts, fixed income analysts, traders and securities brokers.
Companies where students have interned include AXA Equitable, Bloomberg LP, the Federal Reserve Board and Morgan Stanley.
Scranton graduates have gone on to work with companies that include Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Chase, AXA Financial and Bank of America, among others. Among the graduate schools that have admitted Scranton graduates are Cornell School of Law, University of California at Berkley and the Wharton School of Business at Penn.
Investing in a Finance Degree at Scranton
The University of Scranton Strategic Plan 2020 highlights diversity and inclusion as one of the five main goals: “Diversity & Inclusion - A Welcoming and Supportive Community: Reflect and understand the diversity of the world by demanding that diversity be a priority as we build an inclusive community and campus culture, develop and deliver our education and shape our student experience.”
The Diversity Initiatives Review Board is accepting applications for grants to support creative, educational programs that promote diversity, provide opportunity for inter-cultural engagement, and expand opportunities for multicultural experiences for our community.
With the strategic plan goal in mind, we have committed to "Expand both required and in-time orientation, training and leadership programming and resources for students, faculty, and staff that promote inclusion and cultural understanding, furthering our collective ability to be a more welcoming and respectful campus community.”
Some of the campus initiatives that have been made possible by this grant are: TA Talks featuring the teaching assistants in the World Languages and Cultures department; Safe Zone Training through the Cross Cultural Centers; Festival of Nations hosted by the Multicultural Center; Holi Festival of Colors through the Asia Club and Asian Studies department; Justice on Tour through Office of Community Outreach; the Annual disAbilites Conference keynote speakers including RJ Mitte, through the Panuska College; some Schemel Forums; the Weinberg Library International Film Festival; faculty and staff development webinar A Call to Conversion: Eliminating Anti-Black Racism as a Jesuit, Catholic University; art exhibits, multicultural music events and many more!
The Diversity Initiatives Fund is available to students, faculty and staff, campus groups, departments or individuals seeking to promote a greater understanding of diversity through inclusive pedagogies, educational opportunities, multicultural activities and community outreach programs. The grant is intended to launch new, innovative, or educational opportunities for the University community. Recurring projects may apply for funding as well.
Please visit the Diversity Initiatives webpage for a full list of recent award winners, and to access the guidelines and application.
Funding Available for Diversity and Inclusion Programming
The University of Scranton women's basketball and wrestling teams both went unbeaten to highlight another successful week for Royal Athletics. Senior Jessica Hoffmann of the women's track and field team also broke her own indoor program record in the 5,000 meters with the fastest time in the Landmark Conference this season (18:10.65).
For more on the week that was in Scranton Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Women's Basketball, Wrestling Highlight Successful Week for Royals
On Thursday, February 10, an audience of University students, staff and invited guests joined guest lecturer, Roosevelt Montás, Ph.D., in the Moskovitz Theater at The DeNaples Center for the Sondra and Morey Myers Distinguished Visiting Fellowship in the Humanities and Civic Engagement Lecture. Sponsored by The Gail and Francis Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities, the lecture, entitled “Liberal Education for Human Freedom,” addressed Dr. Montás’ view on the importance of a liberal arts education.
Dr. Montás is a senior lecturer in American Studies and English at Columbia University and author of “Rescuing Socrates: How the Great Books Changed My Life and Why They Matter for a New Generation.”
After a brief introduction from Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, Jeff P. Gingerich Ph.D., and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Michelle Maldonado Ph.D., Dr. Montás began his lecture by directly addressing students in the audience.
“Liberal education is the portion of your education that is due to you from us by virtue of your humanity,” said Dr. Montás.
He went on to structure the lecture by elaborating on key terms in the title: human, liberal education, and freedom.
Beginning with a brief evolutionary overview of how humans as a species grew to be the dominant creature on earth, Dr. Montás stressed the idea that as we continue to progress technologically, it is becoming increasingly important that we are all well-versed in how to make ethical decisions that will impact our species for years to come.
When discussing the term liberal education, the topic of his book, Dr. Montás prefaced his explanation by stating that it has nothing to do with political ideologies. Here, he uses the term liberal as it pertains to the concept of freedom. In contrast to a technical, applied or servile education, a liberal education is an all-encompassing education that goes beyond utilitarian instruction and encourages students to explore concepts outside of their chosen career areas. Dr. Montás advocates for such an education by exploring its fundamental role in a functioning democratic society.
“There is no area of human understanding and human learning that lies outside of what this individual, who is being prepared for a life of citizenship and for a life of self-governance, needs to know,” he said.
In order to ensure that students are adequately prepared to experience true freedom, his final term, Dr. Montás quoted Frederick Douglass to draw a connection between the withholding of literacy as a means to control slaves. He alludes to the concept of modern “wage slavery” where individuals are so busy trying to earn enough money to make ends meet, that they do not get to live beyond merely trying to survive.
Dr. Montás concluded his talk with the statement that, “although we can’t change society in one fell swoop, the university’s mission must include looking beyond the materialist ethos of our time and educating ourselves to be free rather than enslaved to our desire for power, wealth and security.”
Author of ‘Rescuing Socrates’ Speaks at Scranton
Forty local law enforcement officers participated in a free workshop on de-escalation strategies presented by The University of Scranton Police Department and supported by an innovative impact grant from the Scranton Area Community Foundation.
The half-day workshop was developed and presented by trained University of Scranton Police officers, who shared their knowledge and expertise on de-escalation strategies with local college police and security personnel and municipal officers.
Many of the situations encountered by police officers, especially those who work in a college setting or in small municipalities, are emergency or personal crisis situations that require a specific set of interpersonal skills. Police officers are expected to be able to recognize the characteristics of individuals in crisis and respond appropriately, employing strategies that can defuse and de-escalate a tense situation to provide an effective and helpful resolution, while reducing liability and risk of injury.
The workshop presented techniques to safely and effectively recognize and respond to situations involving persons in crisis including training in effective communication and active listening skills which can reduce injury and the need for using physical force.
David Kostiak, policy and compliance manager and crime prevention coordinator, University of Scranton Police, and Joe Laguzzi, sergeant and de-escalation trainer, University of Scranton Police, developed and presented the de-escalation strategies workshop.
$content.getChild('content').textValueLaw Enforcement Officers Learn De-escalation Strategies
On Feb. 24, at 6 p.m., in the Rose Room, Brennan 509, the Asian Studies Program/Concentration will hold one of its spring signature events, the Asian New Year Festival and Workshop.
It will feature chopstick competition, prizes, Asian food, presentations on Asian chopstick culture and how the new year is celebrated in East Asia. A hands-on workshop in creating artifacts related to the Year of Tiger, with assistance from instructors and students from the Japanese and Chinese classes.
All safety measures will be in place (e.g., spaced-out seating, sanitizer, and mask on throughout the event and participants can only take off their mask when eating).
Seating is very limited. RSVP registration is required to attend the event. Your registration will also enable us to send a reminder email a day before the event.
Register for Asian New Year Festival and Workshop
This event is co-sponsored by the departments of Asian Studies and World Languages and Cultures.
Please join Asian Studies and World Languages and Cultures for this festive and educational event!
Asian New Year Festival and Workshop
The Multicultural Center is hosting a presentation and discussion about systemic racism and its effects, featuring guest speaker, Dan Kimbrough.
Click here to register.
Dan Kimbrough is an educator with over two decades of classroom, training, and presenting experience. Topics span teaching media criticism, media literacy, conflict mediation, intercultural l communications, race and racism in America, systemic racism, Black history, DEI and JEDI training and consulting, media production, content creation, and live sports production. He also serves on various boards and councils, helping to build up and make a better local community. Including the American Cancer Society NYPENN region, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeaster PA, The American Advertising Federation, and the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce.
When not working in the community, Kimbrough is the owner of Park Multimedia, content creation and storytelling media company, that works with individuals and businesses to tell their stories through media. He knows the power of content and storytelling in reaching an audience and branding a business. He has 20+ years of media experience and has worked with ESPN, as a documentary filmmaker, production manager, professor, podcast producer, photographer, editor, and more.
We look forward to seeing you there!
For more information, please contact Jose Sanchez at jose.sanchez@scranton.edu
Dan Kimbrough on Systemic Racism: An Interactive Presentation
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected employment of market research analysts to grow 23 percent from 2016 to 2026, and the National Association of Colleges and Employers Job Outlook 2018 survey listed marketing as one of the “top bachelor’s degrees in demand, by major.”
A Bachelor of Science degree in marketing at The University of Scranton provides a solid foundation for work in any industry where marketing professionals are increasingly needed. Career paths in this field include advertising, public relations, market analysis, purchasing and sales management.
Housed in Scranton’s AACSB International accredited Kania School of Management, this undergraduate program is taught by highly capable professors including former Fulbright fellows, field experts and professional consultants.
Recent marketing graduates from Scranton have completed internships with Harper Collins Publishers, Merrill Lynch, Bloomberg LP, UBS Financial Services and other companies.
Scranton graduates have gone on to work for employers such as A.C. Nielsen Co., Bank of America, Kellogg’s, Johnson and Johnson, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney and Ralph Lauren, among others.
Scranton’s Professor of Marketing, Abhijit Roy, D.B.A., said that “faculty members strive to prepare students for the corporate world and to be leaders in creating a more just and human society with a broader understanding of the global environment, including marketing strategies that can be used to enhance public policy and improve consumer well-being.”
Enter the Ever-Evolving Field of Marketing
This March, a pair of community events in the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project’s second theme, “The U.S. Citizen and the American Founding” will focus on the concept of freedom – both for our founders and for us today. These events, hosted by The University of Scranton along with community partners, will engage with the larger questions and concerns surrounding the topic of freedom and our shared democracy as our nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
On Tuesday, Mar. 1 at 5 p.m. a Humanities Lecture with Q&A, “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?" with feature two authors and distinguished scholars, Annelien de Dijn, Professor of Modern Political History and section chair of the Political History Department, Utrecht University, and author of Freedom: An Unruly History and Aziz F. Rana, Richard and Lois Cole Professor of Law, Cornell Law School, and author of The Two Faces of American Freedom. Speakers di Dijn and Rana will focus on the evolution of the concept of freedom in Western political thought, including how it has been understood and interpreted by the founders of our nation, and how we can re-engage with our own notions of “freedom” and what this means for our democracy today.
This event will take place on Tuesday, Mar. 1 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. via Zoom and participants will have the opportunity to submit questions for the speakers during the live Zoom event. Registration is required at: surveymonkey.com/r/FreedomToday
On Tuesday, Mar. 22 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. members from both the University of Scranton and greater Scranton area communities are invited to join a public dialogue on “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?". This dialogue will be held on The University of Scranton campus and will involve facilitated small-group structured dialogues that allow participants to reflect on freedom and the founding and our role as citizens in a democracy. Participants will have a chance to consider brief excerpts from founding related readings, share their own experience and perspectives on issues that relate to freedom and equality today, listen to others’ views and engage in conversation.
The University has organized similar discussions on campus since 2017 as part of an ongoing Dialogue Across Differences Initiative, which blends the reflective, structured dialogue methods of national non-profit Essential Partners with St. Ignatius of Loyola’s teachings of discernment and reflection. For tips on how to have your own constructive dialogue that involves both listening to and learning from others, click here.
Registration for this public dialogue is required at: surveymonkey.com/r/FreedomDialogue2022
Theme 2 events began with a Book Discussion on Freedom: An Unruly History on Thursday, Feb. 3 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Participants reflected on excerpted readings of the book, “Freedom: An Unruly History,” by scholar Annelien de Dijn and shared their own views on the concept of freedom in a discussion led by Dr. Matt Meyer, University of Scranton Philosophy faculty member. Discussion themes included the origin of the concept of freedom along with the relationship between freedom and government, the common good, and rules. This hybrid event was hosted by the Scranton Public Library.
Please visit the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project website for further details, including event updates, community partners and humanities resources, at scranton.edu/scrantonstory and contact community@scranton.edu with questions.
Follow “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” on Facebook and Instagram @ourscrantonstory and on Twitter @scrantonstory.
This project has been made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in these events do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
March Lecture and Community Dialogue to Discuss Freedom
University of Scranton faculty, staff and students are invited to join the Multicultural Center for the screening and discussion of the John Lewis: Good Trouble documentary.
Register here.
Thursday, Feb. 17
7:00 p.m.
Loyola Science Center 133, PNC Auditorium
John Lewis: Good Trouble is an intimate account of legendary U.S. Representative John Lewis’ life, legacy and more than 60 years of extraordinary activism. After Lewis petitioned Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to help integrate a segregated school in his hometown of Troy, Alabama, King sent 'the boy from Troy' a round trip bus ticket to meet with him. From that meeting onward, Lewis became one of King’s closest allies. He organized Freedom Rides that left him bloodied or jailed, and stood at the front lines in the historic marches on Washington and Selma. He never lost the spirit of the “boy from Troy” and called on his fellow Americans to get into 'good trouble' until his passing on July 17, 2020.
John Lewis: Good Trouble, directed by Dawn Porter, produced by Erika Alexander, et al. , Ro*Co Films, 2020. Alexander Street.
For more information, please contact Jose Sanchez at jose.sanchez@scranton.edu.
John Lewis: Good Trouble documentary
Recommendations for the 2022-2023 Peter S. Graybar Memorial Scholarship are being solicited. The scholarship will provide assistance for students entering their junior social year next fall.
The Peter S. Graybar Memorial Scholarship was created by the class of 1993 to honor a beloved friend and classmate. The Scholarship will be awarded to a student who is active in extracurricular and community service activities and demonstrates personal impact on fellow students.
For more Information visit scranton.edu/financialaid. Click on 'Scholarships and Grants; Additional Scholarship Opportunities.'
The deadline for submission is Friday, Mar. 11, 2022.
2022-2023 Peter S. Graybar Memorial Scholarship
The Accounting Department of The University of Scranton ranked No. 4 in the world for accounting education research published in the most recent six-years in a listing considered to be the gold standard in accounting disciplines. The recently released 2021 Brigham Young University Accounting Rankings also recognized several accounting faculty members individually for their research publication success.
The Brigham Young University report ranks accounting programs and faculty throughout the world based on their success in publishing in 12 top-tier, peer-reviewed accounting journals. The report is updated annually and includes ranks for specific categories of research and for specific time periods. The 2021 update ranks Scranton’s Accounting Department at as the fourth most prolific department in the world for accounting education research over the most recent six-year period, following Brigham Young University (first), Texas Tech University (second) and Kennesaw State University (third), and preceding Indiana University – Indianapolis (fifth). The department was also ranked internationally for all methods, audit, managerial, experimental and archival accounting research.
With respect to authorships of individual accounting faculty in the area of accounting education, three Scranton faculty members were ranked internationally. Douglas M. Boyle, D.B.A., associate professor and chair of the Accounting Department and director of the DBA program, was ranked No. 7. James F. Boyle, D.B.A., assistant professor of accounting and director of the MAcc program, and Brian W. Carpenter, Ph.D., professor of accounting, ranked No. 18 (tied). Additionally, Dr. Douglas Boyle was ranked for all methods, auditing and experimental research; Dr. Carpenter was ranked for all methods; and Jeh-Hyun Cho, Ph.D., assistant professor of accounting, was ranked for all methods, managerial and archival.
“The University of Scranton’s listing near the top of the 2021 Brigham Young University Accounting Education Research rankings and the very high rankings of many of its individual faculty in a variety of sub-disciplines bear testimony to the Accounting department’s commitment to excellence in both teaching and research. I am very proud of the faculty’s research productivity and their skillful use of scholarship to inform and nourish teaching. This greatly benefits students in our many outstanding programs, but especially in our ground-breaking, research-focused DBA program,” said Michael Mensah, Ph.D., interim dean of the University’s Kania School of Management and professor of accounting.
This is the second consecutive year that the University’s Accounting Department was ranked No. 4 in the world for research success in the prestigious Brigham Young University Accounting Rankings. The Accounting Department and the prolific research of its faculty were also recognized by two academic journals in 2019 and 2020, including an article in Issues in Accounting Education that ranked Scranton No. 1 in the nation for accounting programs and faculty based on the number of publications in the leading five accounting practitioner journals.
Accounting Dept./Faculty Top Research Productivity List
In celebration of International Women's Day, the Women and Gender Studies Program and the Jane Kopas Women's Center will host a roundtable on Global Gender Equity on March 8 in the Rose Room, Brennan 509, from 5-7 p.m. Refreshments will be served.
Speakers will be Dr. Imen Neffati (Pembroke College, UK), Dr. Ovidiu Cocieru (University of Scranton), and Dr. Virginia Picchietti (University of Scranton).
Registration is required. Please RSVP by Feb. 28 to marzia.caporale@scranton.edu.
Global Gender Equity Roundtable Scheduled
The University of Scranton Players will present “A Good Farmer” by Sharyn Rothstein, directed by West Scranton native Bob E. Gasper. A timely drama that deftly approaches multiple perspectives of issues regarding immigration and social justice in America, the play will run February 25-27 and March 4-6 in the Royal Theatre of the McDade Center for the Literary and Performing Arts on the University’s campus. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8 p.m., and the Sunday performances begin at 2 p.m.
“A Good Farmer” is the story of two women – a farm owner and her unlikely best friend, an undocumented Mexican immigrant – fighting to survive in a small town divided by America’s immigration battle. The play “brings the much-needed sense of humanity to the issue of immigration and addresses many of the moral questions we face …This is an important piece of theatre,” according to a 2018 review by Broadway World. The play, laced with humor, is about love, friendship and finding the power to face what divides us.
The cast features: Seraphina Stager, Lincoln, Rhode Island; Ariana Flores, Springfield, New Jersey; Nick Baranosky, Stevensville, Maryland; Keenan Beveridge, Warminster; Samantha Gurn, Brackney; and Olivia Raineri, Shirley, New York; in addition to Bridget Fry, Allentown, New Jersey; and Matt Valunas, Scranton; who are also assistant stage managers for the production. Also assisting with the production are Samantha Burton, Jamesville, New York, stage manager; Zainab Shah, Hellertown, assistant stage manager; Gillian Williams-Mayers, Scranton, assistant director and props coordinator; Kelsey Bennet, Orangeville, costume coordinator; Kit Karpiak, Scranton, sound counsel operator; and Isabelle Oister, Pottstown, lighting console operator.
The University’s production of “A Good Farmer” is being co-produced by The Jesuit Center.
For tickets, contact the University Players box office at 570-941-4318 or visit thescrantonplayers.com. (or did you want to use 570-941-4353 or email players@scranton.edu) Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for senior citizens, students and University of Scranton faculty and staff. Second weekend performances are free for first-year students at the University.
Audience members are required to follow the University’s health and safety guidelines, which currently include wearing higher-grade masks (N95, KN95, KF94 or double masking) indoors. The University’s health and safety information will be updated throughout the semester and can be seen on the Royals Back Together webpage.
For more information, contact players@scranton.edu or visit the University Players on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.University Players to Present ‘A Good Farmer’
On Sunday, Feb. 20, Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a recital by nationally acclaimed solo and orchestral concert pianist and Peckville native John Wilson. The recital will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue.
Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis. All audience members are required to wear a higher-grade mask (N95, KN95, KF94 or double masking) at all times. Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the recital for the most current information on additional required audience COVID-19 mitigation measures (e.g., masking, vaccination, distancing, etc.).
Wilson, a graduate of Valley View High School who holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from The Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University, will perform Aaron Copland’s Piano Sonata, Upon Further Reflection by Michael Tilson Thomas and Seven Virtuoso Études after Gershwin.
According to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga, “it has been an amazing experience to have a front row seat to the artistic development and achievement of this young man from his middle school and high school years performing at local schools and music festivals to his current command of national and international stages as a soloist and with major orchestras.”
Proclaimed a “marvelous musical mad scientist” by the Music Critics Association of North America, Wilson has distinguished himself with a deep repertoire ranging from baroque to contemporary. He has performed extensively throughout North America at high-profile venues such as New York City’s Merkin Hall, Miami’s New World Symphony Center and San Francisco’s Louis M. Davies Hall. As a soloist, he has performed with the New World Symphony, Napa Valley Symphony Orchestra and both the New Amsterdam Symphony and Orchestra Camerata Notturn in New York.
Meanwhile, Wilson has become a sought-after collaborator for some of the world’s most prolific composers, performing on the U.S and world premieres of solo piano works by Michael Tilson Thomas, duo works by Timo Andres and Judith Lang Zaimont, and ensemble works by Steve Reich, Reinbert de Leeuw, HK Gruber and Bernd Deutsch.
The top prize winner in a number of international piano competitions, Wilson took first prize in the 2019 International Respighi Competition, resulting in an invitation to perform as soloist with the Chamber Orchestra of New York. In addition, he won first place in the American Prize Foundation 2019 Competition and Best Performance of an American Work at the 2017 Liszt-Garrison International Piano Competition.
Wilson also is an in-demand chamber musician and collaborator, appearing in chamber ensembles with musicians from the San Francisco Symphony, Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal and San Diego Symphony. In addition, he has performed recitals with violinist Joshua Bell, cellist Johannes Moser, violinist Anthony Marwood and soprano Audra McDonald. He has recorded for MSR Classics, and his performances can be heard on Medici.tv and WQXR.
For further information on the recital, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more information on Wilson, visit johnwilsonpiano.com.
Peckville Native to Perform at University Feb. 20
As part of Diversity and Inclusion's “Lunch and Learn” series and an effort of the Council on Diversity and Inclusion’s Institutional Black History subcommittee, Rev. David Collins, S.J., will present "Jesuits and Slavery: A History in Search of Understanding" on Feb. 15.
Jesuits and Slavery: A History in Search of Understanding
Presentation by Rev. David Collins, S.J.
Haub Director of Catholic Studies and Associate Professor of History, Georgetown University
Tuesday, February 15, 2022
11:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Via Zoom/ In-person Luncheon Kane forum, Leahy Hall 235
Registration is required. Lunch will be offered to go.
This presentation and Q&A will provide an overview of the participation by the Society of Jesus in slaveholding from the 16th to the 19th centuries and will explore what this legacy of racial injustice and anti-Black racism means for all U.S. Jesuit institutions, including The University of Scranton, today.
Fr. Collins is an internationally recognized expert in processes of historical truth and reconciliation. For more than twenty years he has been involved in educational outreach on Jesuit history and slaveholding both to Jesuits and interested communities. He led Georgetown University’s Working Group on Slavery, Memory and Reconciliation, which has garnered national attention since 2015, and he continues to play a consultative role for religious schools and other institutions trying to address historical connections to slaveholding and its legacy. He has recently been involved in conversations examining comparative processes of truth and reconciliation between the US, Canada, and Finland. By training, Fr. Collins is an intellectual and cultural historian of religion and science in Europe.
For more information, visit slaveryarchive.georgetown.edu and shmr.jesuits.org.
RSVP here. This program is open to the University community and the broader public. An in-person watch party will be open to University faculty, staff and students only.
Co-sponsored by: The University of Scranton Jesuit Center, Office of Equity and Diversity, Council on Diversity and Inclusion’s Institutional Black History subcommittee, and Office of Community Relations, and the Multicultural Center.
Black History Month: Jesuits and Slavery
Global Insights invites you to join the spring opening presentation featuring mathematician and visiting scholar, Dr. Serap Şahinkaya, Feb. 22, 2022, at 11:30 a.m. in the Rose Room, Brennan Hall 509.
A country that bridges two continents, southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia, and fuses world cultures, Turkey has played a key role in the building blocks of society. The archeological history predates the 600 years long, powerful Ottoman Empire, and to date, the landscape offers a look back in time to the earliest days of humanity.
Serap Şahinkaya, Ph.D., assistant professor of math at Tarsus University and visiting scholar from Istanbul Turkey, has come to the University of Scranton after meeting Steven Dougherty, Ph.D., professor of math, at a conference. Şahinkaya shared that Turkey is culturally diverse with heavy Middle Eastern, European and Asian influences. The land area spans just over the size of Texas and holds a population of almost 8.5 million, most of whom are located int eh urban areas, like Istanbul. She enjoys the native street foods, music and folk dance.
Participants will enjoy a musical performance by Dr. Şahinkaya on the Turkish guitar along with cultural cuisine.
Students, faculty and staff are invited to learn more about Turkey. Click here to register.
This program is being offered by the Office of Global Education, the Cross Cultural Centers, Residence Life and the Office of Equity and Diversity. For more information, please contact international@scranton.edu or 570-941-4841.
Global Insights Welcomes Spring With Turkey
The Schemel Forum presents its Virtual World Affairs Seminar "Our Common Home: Vatican and Multifaith Engagement on Environment and Climate Justice" on Thursday, February 10.
Rabbi Daniel Swartz of Scranton’s Temple Hesed and Executive Director of the Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life, recently traveled to the Vatican to take part in an ongoing multifaith effort to address climate change. Join us to hear highlights of that work and to discuss the role of faith traditions to protect the environment and promote the common good.
Rabbi Daniel Swartz, Spiritual Leader, Temple Hesed and Executive Director, Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life (COEJL)
REMOTE ONLY- Noon to 1:30 p.m.; Zoom remote link will be emailed
Please email Alicen.Morrison@scranton.edu to register
Schemel Forum Virtual World Affairs Seminar, Feb. 10
Learn about how the Lunar New Year is celebrated, the history of red envelopes, and how to make Chinese paper cutting art from Chinese instructor Chun-Sheng Su from Taiwan. No registration is required.
Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022
7:00-8:00 p.m.
Leahy 235 (Kane Forum)
Sponsored by the World Languages and Cultures Department
Contact Hannah Jackson at hannah.jackson@scranton.edu for more information
World Languages and Cultures Presents Chinese Paper Cutting
As technology continues to advance, so does cyber-related crime. Homeland security, private business and individual security are among places that need individuals trained to investigate these cyber offenses. Career paths in this growing field include computer forensic investigator, cyber threat intelligence analyst, law enforcement agent, military officer or legislative assistant.
The University of Scranton offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Cybercrime and Homeland Security. Housed in the Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice and Criminology, this degree is designed to give students a comprehensive introduction to the evolving world of cybercrime law and the tools used to enforce it.
As part of Scranton’s Center for the Analysis and Prevention of Crime, the University’s new cyber-forensics and cyber security lab, students can gain vital hands-on experience with digital forensics tools that are used by professionals in the field.
Some key topics covered in this program’s curriculum include cyber intelligence, digital forensics investigation, ethical hacking and terrorism and homeland security.
Scranton’s Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Criminology is one of just a handful of undergraduate criminal justice programs in the United States that has been certified by the Academy of Criminal Justice in the last 10 years.
Explore the Emerging Field of Cybercrime and Homeland Security
The University of Scranton men's and women's track and field teams both broke multiple program records at Saturday's meet, while the women's basketball team extended their winning streak to 13 games with victories over Moravian and Goucher.
On the heels of being named Landmark Conference Athlete of the Week on Monday, senior Jackson Danzig (Clarks Green, Pa./Abington Heights) of The University of Scranton men's basketball team has been announced as the U.S. Basketball Writers Association (USBWA) Division III National Player of the Week.
For that and more on the week that was in Scranton Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Track & Field Programs Break Multiple Program Records
The University of Scranton Board of Trustees will hold its retreat on Feb. 16 on campus.
During the upcoming meeting, board members will focus on the Anti-Racism Examen, which is “designed to strengthen the link between personal reflection and institutional action,” according to the Association of Jesuit Colleges & Universities (AJCU).
University President Joseph G. Marina, S.J., had a part in the creation of the AJCU Anti-Racism Examen in 2020, which, he said, like the daily Examen, “is rooted in both a sense of gratitude and honest self-examination.”
The board’s advanced reading will include the seminal letter, “Interracial Apostolate,” of Fr. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., to American Jesuits in 1967. Fr. Marina recently quoted an excerpt from the letter – as “an avenue of ongoing learning” – in his reflection on Black History Month.
“Through the Examen project, I shared my own realizations in the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd of discovering aspects and legacies of Black history beyond those I had previously known. I was reminded by the truth that however much knowledge we acquire, we all remain students. And so I am anxious to continue my learning,” Fr. Marina wrote in the reflection.
Speakers on the Anti-Racism Examen will include Robert Kelly, Ph.D., vice president and special assistant to the president, Loyola University Maryland, and Catherine Punsalan-Manlimos, assistant to the president for Mission and Integration, University of Detroit Mercy. Nancy Dallavalle, Ph.D., associate professor of religious students, Fairfield University, will also speak at the retreat about the newly revised Characteristics of Jesuit higher education.
Dr. Kelly provides leadership for the areas across Loyola University Maryland such as Mission & Identity, Intercollegiate Athletics, External Affairs and the Division for Student Development. Deeply immersed in both liberal arts and Jesuit education, he works closely with the president to coordinate oversight of the strategic plan. Dr. Kelly served in executive leadership roles at Union College, Loyola University Chicago and Seattle University. In addition to his bachelor’s degree in political science, Dr. Kelly received his Ph.D. from the University of Maryland and his master's degree from the University of Vermont. He has also served on Loyola’s board of trustees; and attended Harvard University’s Institute for Educational Management (IEM).
Dr. Punsalan-Manlimos has played an active role in Jesuit education for more than 30 years, beginning at Ateneo de Manlia University, where she earned a bachelor’s in physics. She received her master’s in Theological Studies at the Loyola School of Theology in Quezon City and her doctorate in Systematic Theology at the University of Notre Dame. She began her teaching career at Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, Philippines, one of five Jesuit universities in the country, where she was a member of the theology department and taught courses at the undergraduate level and in the Formation Institute for Religious Education (FIRE), a summer graduate program for religious educators and catechists. Dr. Punsalan-Manlimos was an associate professor in the Theology and Religious Studies Department at Seattle University for 15 years, the inaugural director of the Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture and held the Malcolm and Mari Stamper Endowed Chair in Catholic Intellectual and Cultural Traditions. In addition, she directed the Catholic Studies Program in the College of Arts & Sciences.
Dr. Dallavalle has more than 13 years of experience at Fairfield University. She completed her bachelor’s in music at Benedictine College, enrolling in a Master of Arts in Theology program concentrating in Systematics, and obtaining her degree in 1983. She received her doctorate in theology from the University of Notre Dame in 1993. Dr. Dallavalle then joined the Religious Studies department at Fairfield University in Connecticut, working over the years as associate professor and chair of the Department of Religious Studies, associate professor of religious studies and university facilitator for Mission & Identity, vice president for Mission & Identity and special assistant to the provost.
Board Retreat Focuses on Anti-Racism Examen
The Aquinas is asking members of The University of Scranton community to share thoughts and memories of the late Matthew Reavy, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Communication and Media. A collection of the reflections will be shared online and published in an upcoming memorial issue of The Aquinas dedicated to Dr. Reavy.
Thoughts can be shared through this online form until Tuesday, February 22, 2022.
Aquinas Plans Memorial Issue Dedicated to Dr. Reavy
In the fall of 2022, the Office of Community-Based Learning (CBL) welcomed a new CBL Faculty Coordinator, Debra L. Fetherman, Ph.D., MCHES. Dr. Fetherman is an associate professor of Health and Human Performance and is the director of the Health Promotion Program. Since joining the University in 2005, she has demonstrated her deep passion for engaging with the Scranton area community and interest in pedagogy, assessment and supporting her fellow faculty members.
In her CBL role, Dr. Fetherman follows Meghan Ashlin Rich, Ph.D., associate professor of Sociology/Criminal Justice and Women’s Studies who served as the inaugural CBL faculty coordinator from 2017-2020. Under the leadership of Dr. Ashlin Rich, the CBL Office and faculty coordinator role was established and grew, including new faculty resources such as the annual CBL faculty workshop and other training and networking opportunities.
Engaging in CBL since 2006, Dr. Fetherman has incorporated several multi-year projects addressing partner needs in the community. Her first CBL project at the University was The Growing Stronger Project, a strength training and nutrition education program targeting older adults in the community. With community-partner, the Lackawanna County PA State Cooperative Extension, this program was offered at multiple senior centers in the county.
Dr. Fetherman has cultivated strong relationships with community partners including St. Joseph’s Center and the Autism Collaborative Centers of Excellence, Executive Hub at The University of Scranton. Despite the challenges during the coronavirus pandemic, Dr. Fetherman has continued to support community-partners organizations by adapting presentations to virtual formats and working with her students on community-based research projects. In her new role, Dr. Fetherman hopes to support her fellow faculty members as they incorporate CBL into their courses. In her first year, Dr. Fetherman and the CBL Board are creating new opportunities, including a new CBL Faculty Fellows program as well as workshops and resources related to reflection and assessment.
“Community-based learning represents Jesuit values in action and is a best practice of Ignatian pedagogy. CBL creates an exceptional teaching and learning experience where all involved (faculty, students, and community members) embody being men and women for and with others,” said Dr. Fetherman.
Dr. Fetherman also partnered with St. Joseph’s Center to assist with the development and implementation of The CareStrong Wellness Program, an employee wellness program. Dr. Fetherman’s recent projects include a spring 2021 partnership with St. Joseph’s to develop physical activity interventions for employees. Students in her HPRO 413: Worksite Health Promotion created a “Pop-Up Wellness Facilitator Guide” for the center to implement brief wellness breaks throughout the workday. In the same semester, her HPRO 320: Health Promotion Program Planning students developed employee physical activity interventions for Saint Joseph's Center.
This spring her HPRO 340 “Health Literacy” course is continuing the CBL partnership with Erin Dunleavy, Ph.D., the director of The Autism Collaborative Centers of Excellence, Executive Hub at The University of Scranton to help identify the health literacy needs of the center, its partners, and priority populations. This collaboration began in the fall semester of 2021 with Health Promotion students in the HPRO 410 “Health Communication” course completing the first CBL project focused on the Center’s needs related to health literacy. Dr. Fetherman’s students learned about the community context of this project by hearing from a guest speaker from hub, onsite orientation at the center, attendance at one parent support group meeting via Zoom with pre- and post-reflection writing activities, class written reflection activity on autism personal stories, and autism myth quiz. A summary of the course’s findings was shared with Dr. Dunleavy.
“Dr. Fetherman brings long experience in how to create and sustain community partnerships in ways that benefit student learning goals and prioritize and respond to the needs of the community. We are excited to build on the good work of the last few years to also create new support opportunities for faculty looking to improve their current CBL courses or create new community-engaged activities.” Said Julie Schumacher Cohen, Chair of the CBL Board and Assistant Vice President for Community Engagement and Government Affairs.
The Office of Community-Based Learning was created in 2017 to strengthen and expand CBL across the University, reflecting the commitment to reciprocal relationships that support both student learning and the greater Scranton community. For more information, please visit scranton.edu/CBL or contact cbl@scranton.edu.
CBL Office Welcomes New Faculty Coordinator
Love is in the air! Royals tell their #ScrantonLoveStory ahead of Valentine's Day.
Nick McKaba '16 and Stephanie Romano '15, G'16 are getting married in June 2022. The pair met thanks to their love of sports."I played softball and at the U and Nick played lacrosse. Nick proposed in the Rose Garden in June 2020," wrote Stephanie.
Go Royals!
Dana (Giambrone) ‘97 and Seth Rosencrance ‘97 met in Nevils Hall in 1993 and have been together ever since.
Keith Guglielmi '06 and Jennifer (Bostwick) Guglielmi '06 met through ROTC on campus.
Blaire Wilkie ‘15, G‘18 and Michael Balcon ‘13, G‘16 tied the knot on campus "where we fell in love!"
Kyle Hatler '03 and Tera Ravina '03 "met through a mutual friend while studying for exams in our Math 104 class with Dr. Bonnie Xiong during our fall semester of freshman year on campus. We were both Nevils Devils as well."
The couple started dating in 1999 and got married 10 years later. They live in Rutherford, New Jersey with their two children.
Casey Fitzgerald ‘16 and Mollie Medrano ‘17 met through mutual friends during their time here on campus.
Felix Rodriguez '13 and Amanda Rodriguez '13 "met our junior year at a party."
Sophie Sabatell '17, G'18 and Timothy Poole '17, G'20 "met at the praise and worship group which Tim helped to start/run our freshman year. We have been married for almost a year and a half now."
Ingrid (Stein) Garofalo '03 and Joseph Garofalo '03 met in front of Fitch Hall in the spring of 2000.
Bridget (Gallagher) Lolli ‘16 and James Lolli ‘14 DPT ‘17 "met when I was a freshman, got married in May of 2020, and are now expecting our first baby in May 2022!!" wrote Bridget.
"We met in 2014 living on Vine Street, have been dating since 2016, and are getting married on 05.06.2023."
Pete Sims ‘22 and Mary Bunone ‘22 met at Search 89.
"We had classes together junior year but didn’t meet until Halloween weekend senior year through a mutual friend. Have been together ever since."
Joe '16 and Meghan Costello '16 got married in September 2020 with "a whole crew of Scranton people" at their wedding.
Dillon De Benedetto '15 and Marina Pierre '15 met on the first day of University Orientation in July 2011.
Their story:
"During the student welcome party in the Byron Recreation Center, Marina saw Dillon walking by and he immediately caught her eye and she asked him to join in on the game of pickup volleyball. After about 10 minutes they went for a walk around campus and clicked immediately. After Orientation, they exchanged numbers and talked all summer until school was back in session. Dillon found every opportunity to message her about the book they were required to read (which he didn't)."
When they both returned to college for the semester, their friendship blossomed. Dillon always knew Marina was the one and only had eyes for her. After a year of pursuing Marina, who also knew deep down she liked Dillon, they finally decided to become more than best friends and started dating and the rest is history! They have been together 10 years and will be happily married in the Fall of 2022."
Sue (Brzenski) Gibbons '01 and Tom Gibbons '96, G'99 didn't meet until after college.
"Tom‘s sister, Gillian Gibbons, was one of my best friends at Scranton. I always knew Tom as her older brother. After college, she informed me that she always knew we’d be together. We started dating in 2006 and have never been apart since! This year we will be married for 13 years. The pictures I’m sharing are from our wedding. Father Pilarz married us at Saint Ann’s basilica Parish in Scranton. We had pictures with our wedding party taken at the Estate. The picture with our friends shows all of the alumni that were present at our wedding. Father Pilarz referred to our wedding during the ceremony as a “meeting of the Scranton Alumni Society.”
A Scranton Love Story
During the spring semester, the Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Seminars at The University of Scranton will explore insightful topics with timely perspectives and historical undertones.
Six experts in their fields will lead discussions via a remote format as well as in-person when luncheons return to the campus. Each event will take place from noon to 1:30 p.m. Admission is free for University students, faculty and staff and Schemel Forum members. For non-members, the luncheons $25 in person and $10 remotely.
The series opens on Thursday, Feb. 10, with “Our Common Home: Vatican and Multifaith Engagement on Environment and Climate Justice,” presented by Rabbi Daniel Swartz of Temple Hesed in Scranton. He also serves as the executive director of the Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life (COEJL), based in Washington, D.C. Rabbi Swartz joined 40 global religious leaders, 10 scientists and social scientists, and Pope Francis at the Vatican in October 2021 to take part in an ongoing multi-faith effort to address climate change. He will share highlights of that work and discuss the role of faith traditions to protect the environment and promote the common good.
“The science of climate change has been clear for a while, but a combination of denial and disinformation, especially in the U.S., has delayed an appropriate response to the looming global crisis,” said Rabbi Swartz, who was invited because of his efforts to articulate the moral urgency of climate change and because those efforts are “on the ground” rather than administrative. One of only five participants from the U.S., he played a prominent role in writing the document presented a few weeks later at the 2021 U.N. Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, Scotland.
“At the Vatican, in the interest of social justice, we prepared a shared vision of how wealthy countries can come together to mitigate the even-harsher effects of climate change on poorer regions,” said Rabbi Swartz. “Hope is the belief that if you work hard enough, any situation can improve; and that’s something all faiths have carried since the origin of religion. This initiative is different from previous planning, because we made a commitment to continue the discussion locally and reconvene periodically to assess our progress and plan action steps based on those assessments.” The seminar will take place in remote format only. A remote link will be emailed to those registered.
On Friday, Feb. 18, Elzbieta Matynia, Ph.D., professor of sociology and liberal studies and director of the Transregional Center for Democratic Studies at the New School for Social Research, will present “Is Liberal Democracy Already History?” Dr. Matynia will explore the state of democracy today, at home and abroad and the evolution of illiberal democracies, particularly in eastern European countries. She will discuss the factors that made possible the societal hope that took root, the factors that facilitated unprecedented setbacks, and the factors that now sustain the promise of reclaiming democracy while addressing the issues of broader social justice. The seminar will take place in the Kane Forum of Edward Leahy Hall, and a remote link will be emailed to those registered.
“Linneaus’ Legacy: Corrupting Color to Serve Discrimination and Exploitation” will be presented on Thursday, March 3 by Kathy Johnson Bowles, executive director of Scranton’s Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science and Art. Swedish botanist, zoologist and taxonomist Carl Linneaus (1707-1778) formalized a system of naming organisms still used today.
“Linneaus’ theories have been expanded upon by several influential thinkers over the years,” said Bowles. “Reinforcing the notion that skin color, head shape and other physical characteristics determine the value of a group or individual is clearly discriminatory and racist.” Bowles will raise eyebrows by connecting those dots to the seemingly innocent naming of crayon colors and other ways that we inadvertently further these antiquated and harmful notions. The seminar will take place in the Rose Room of Brennan Hall, and a remote link will be emailed to those registered.
Two prominent scholars from Los Angeles will team up on Monday, March 14 to present “Remarkable Tale of Law, Politics, and Religion: The Making of Kiryas Joel, a Hasidic town in Upstate New York.” David N. Myers, Ph.D., a Scranton native, is the Sady and Ludwig Kahn Professor of Jewish History at UCLA, where he serves as the director of the UCLA Luskin Center for History and Policy. He will join his wife and co-author Nomi Stolzenberg, founder and co-director of the USC Center for Law, History and Culture. This talk will explore the fascinating story of Kiryas Joel, a legally recognized municipality in New York made up entirely of strictly Orthodox Hasidic Jews. The seminar will take place in the Rose Room of Brennan Hall, and a remote link will be emailed to those registered. Copies of the book by Dr. Stolzenberg and Dr. Myers, “American Shtetl: The Making of Kiryas Joel, a Hasidic Village in Upstate New York,” will be on sale.
On Thursday, March 24, Fredrik Logevall, Ph.D., Laurence D. Belfer Professor of International Affairs at Harvard University, will present “Window Into the Presidency: The White House Tapes and Their Meaning.” For a brief eleven-year period, from 1962 to 1973, three American presidents secretly recorded high-level White House deliberations concerning top policy issues. Dr. Logevall will play some of these extraordinary recordings and discuss what they reveal about the affairs of state during a tumultuous period of American history. The seminar will take place in the Rose Room of Brennan Hall, and a remote link will be emailed to those registered.
The series will conclude on Friday, April 22. “Russia and the Post-Truth Society” will be presented by Jill Dougherty, who formerly served as CNN’s Moscow Bureau Chief for almost a decade. An expert on Russia, she is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University and a CNN on-air contributor.
“During the Cold War, the USSR tried to convince the world that communism was the future of humankind,” said Dougherty. “The U.S. tried to convince the world that democracy and capitalism gave people a better life. Today, propagandists still try to convince but, more and more, try to confuse and to overwhelm their target audiences with a firehose of mis- and dis-information.”
Dougherty, who is currently teaching a course titled “Information Wars” at Georgetown University, will explore the new paradigm, what it means for Russia, and what it could mean for America. The semiar will take place in the Kane Forum of Edward Leahy Hall; and a remote link will be emailed to those registered.
To register for the seminars, contact Alicen Morrison, Schemel Forum assistant, at 570-941-6206 or alicen.morrison@scranton.edu. To pay by credit card over the phone, contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816, or to pay online, visit: www.scranton.edu/schemelforum.
For more information on Schemel Forum programs and memberships, contact Sondra Myers, Schemel Forum director, at 570-941-4089 or sondra.myers@scranton.edu.
Schemel Forum Seminars Cover Enticing Topics
University of Scranton Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) student Gregory Kogan co-authored the text book “Self-Service Data Analytics and Governance for Managers,” which was published in 2021 by Wiley.
“The Scranton DBA program provided me with incredible research support and the professors were very involved in assisting with research and publications,” said Kogan, Manalapan, New Jersey. “It felt great to be in such an inclusive and encouraging environment that promoted collaboration between professors and DBA students. Dr. Doug Boyle, the DBA program director at Scranton, was both a coach and mentor to me. I hope to continue to collaborate with him and others at Scranton after graduation.
Kogan said he and other DBA students say Scranton’s program is “the best in the country.”
“The Scranton DBA program faculty were very caring and provided rigorous course work while also emphasizing key avenues toward success with research and publication. Furthermore, the connections that I made with other DBA students are invaluable and I am looking forward to keeping in touch with the Scranton University network in the future,” said Kogan.
A certified public accountant (CPA), Kogan is currently an assistant professor of practice in accounting at Virginia Tech University. He previously taught accounting practice at Long Island University. He has experience as an auditor at Ernst & Young and as a controller at Tiger Management. He earned his bachelor’s degree in computer science and his MBA in accounting from Rutgers University. He is a member of the third cohort of DBA students at Scranton and will graduate from the program in 2022.
Housed in the Kania School of Management, the University’s DBA program began in the fall semester of 2017. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) recognized Scranton’s DBA program for “Innovations and Best Practices in Canada, Latin America and the United States” in 2019. The program was developed with a concentration in accounting, to provide experienced practitioners with a practical pathway to an academic career. The program offers participants flexibility, while still providing for the development of the knowledge and skill set necessary to become a “scholarly academic” – one who is qualified to teach at a school of business that possesses or is seeking formal accreditation by Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International).
DBA Student Co-authors Textbook
The following notes about the death of Matthew Reavy, Ph.D., were sent to the University community from the Office of the President. Information about the viewing is included below.
Feb. 3
Dear Friends,
I am saddened to inform you that Matthew Reavy, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the Department of Communication and Media at the University, passed away yesterday.
A graduate of The University of Scranton, Dr. Reavy earned his bachelor’s degree in 1984 and his master’s degree in 1992 from Scranton. He earned his doctorate at the University of Missouri, Columbia. He returned to his alma mater to join the faculty in 1998, having previously served as an assistant professor at Louisiana State University. He also worked as a journalist for the Scranton Tribune, the Hometown Publications chain of weekly newspapers and the National Institute for Computer-Assisted Reporting.
During his nearly 25-year tenure at the University, he served on numerous committees and governance bodies, as department chair and as the faculty adviser to The Aquinas. His areas of teaching and research include journalism and ethics. Through his teaching, participation in panel discussions, scholarly work and opinion pieces he kept a critical eye on the profession he loved, holding journalists and the news industry to the highest standards. He will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife, Susan, and sons, Declan, Samuel and Benjamin. Benjamin is currently a student at the University.
While I regret being away from campus on University business at this time, I know that my brother Jesuits, Campus Ministries and the Counseling Center are offering their support to our students and faculty.
We will share more details regarding funeral arrangements when that information becomes available. In the meantime, please join me in remembering Dr. Reavy and his family in your prayers.
Eternal life grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.
Yours faithfully,
Joseph G. Marina, S. J.
President
Feb. 7
Dear Friends,
I am writing to share information about the viewing planned for Matthew Reavy, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the Department of Communication and Media, who passed away February 2.
Friends and colleagues may call Tuesday, February 8, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Harold C. Snowdon Funeral Home Inc., 140 N. Main Street, Shavertown.
A funeral service will be held later for family, close friends and colleagues. Matt’s full obituary can be seen here. Contributions can be made to the Matthew Reavy, Ph.D., Scholarship Fund at The University of Scranton, online at scranton.edu/makeagift or mailed to University Advancement, University of Scranton, 800 Linden Street, Scranton, PA 18510.
This, of course, is a very difficult time for the Reavy family. Please join me in remembering Dr. Reavy and his family in your prayers.
Eternal life grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.
Yours faithfully,
Joseph G. Marina, S. J.
President
Death of Professor Matthew Reavy, Ph.D.
Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, professed his final vows as a Jesuit in the presence of members of The University of Scranton community at a Mass in the Madonna della Strada Chapel on campus on January 30.
Members of the Society of Jesus take their final vows after completing the last stage of formation called “Tertianship,” which includes a 30-day retreat to reengage the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Loyola, as well as a year-long refection on their life and service as a Jesuit.
Father Marina invited the University community to share with him the formal conclusion of his Jesuit formation, which he began 18 years ago. Father Marina entered the Society of Jesus in 2004 and was ordained to the priesthood in 2012. He became the 29th President of The University of Scranton in June of 2021.
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The first week with students back for the spring semester at The University of Scranton saw more winning for the women's basketball team, an impressive evening for the track & field teams and the swimming & diving teams concluding their regular seasons as preparation begins for the 2022 Landmark Conference Championships.
For that and more on the week that was in Scranton Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: The Streak Continues for Women's Basketball
The Center for Health Education and Wellness (CHEW) kicks off its annual Fitness Challenge on Feb. 14, so be sure to register before Feb. 8 using this link or the QR code around campus!
CHEW is challenging you to complete 150 minutes of physical activity per week for four weeks. If you log your progress for three of the four weeks you earn a dri-fit T-shirt! You can additionally participate as part of a team to be entered into weekly raffles and a final grand prize! For more information and to check out this year's shirt, visit scranton.edu/chew.
CHEW's Fitness Challenge Kicks Off Feb. 14
The University of Scranton Book Club will begin discussing "The Long Loneliness" by Dorothy Day at its next virtual meeting Feb. 20. To register for the discussion, visit this link.
"The Long Loneliness" is the autobiography of Dorothy Day, an American Catholic social activist who sought to be in solidarity with poor and marginalized people throughout her life. By the time of her death in 1980, many already considered her a saint, and St. John Paul II opened her cause for canonization in 2000.
The Rev. Patrick D. Rogers, S.J., executive director of The Jesuit Center, and the Rev. James D. Redington, S.J., Jesuit fellow at The Jesuit Center, will lead the virtual discussions of the book. For more information on the club, visit scranton.edu/alumnibookclub.
University Book Club To Discuss 'The Long Loneliness' Feb. 20
The Jesuit Center will launch its annual Lenten Daily Devotional project with an inaugural email reflection on Ash Wednesday, which falls on March 2 this year.
The Lenten Daily Devotional is a project of The Jesuit Center in partnership with University Advancement. For each of Lent's 40 days, participants in the project will receive an email containing a daily prayer, a link to a daily scripture reading and a reflection written by a member of the University community. To receive the daily devotional emails, visit this link. All recipients who registered in a prior year are already signed up for this year’s reflections. For more information on The Jesuit Center and its mission, visit this link.
Register Today for The Jesuit Center's Lenten Daily Devotional Emails
The Alumni Society of The University of Scranton will hold its annual Day of Service Saturday, April 23 (with the exception of South Central, Pa., which will hold its Day of Service April 9). If you are interested in hosting a service project in your region, please email alumni@scranton.edu information on volunteer opportunities within your community by Feb. 25.
Save the Date for the Day of Service April 23
Roosevelt Montás, Ph.D., author and senior lecturer in American studies and English at Columbia University, will present “Liberal Education for Human Freedom” at the Sondra and Morey Myers Distinguished Visiting Fellowship in the Humanities and Civic Engagement Lecture on Thursday, Feb. 10, at The University of Scranton. The lecture, sponsored by The Gail and Francis Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities, will begin at 5:30 p.m. at Moskovitz Theater DeNaples Center.
At Columbia University, Dr. Montás teaches “Introduction to Contemporary Civilization in the West,” a year-long course on primary texts in moral and political thought, as well as seminars in American Studies including “Freedom and Citizenship in the United States.” He served as the director of the Center for the Core Curriculum at Columbia College from 2008 to 2018. He is also the director of the Center for American Studies’ Freedom and Citizenship Program in collaboration with the Double Discovery Center.
Dr. Montás speaks and writes on the history, meaning and future of liberal education and is the author of “Rescuing Socrates: How the Great Books Changed My Life and Why They Matter for a New Generation” (Princeton University Press, 2021).
“‘The West’ as a category is, of course, itself problematic … the banners of “Western civilization” and “Western culture” have been used to give cover to imperialist, racist and colonialist agendas and to justify the subjugation and exploitation of “non-Western” people. But the term is also used to describe something more legitimate: a large and porous cultural configuration around the Mediterranean Sea, with strong Greco-Roman roots, that served as the historical seedbed for the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, the Scientific Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and much of what is called ‘modernity,’” wrote Dr. Montás in an opinion piece published by The Chronicle of Higher Education on Nov. 16, 2021. “While the European continent figures prominently, the tradition incorporates defining elements from non-European sources like the Arab world, ancient Egypt and North Africa, and even the East. It is a tradition rife with fissures, where overturning the past is preferred to venerating it. Loose and fractured as this tradition of contest and debate is, key aspects of the modern world emerge from it. The tradition matters not because it is Western, but because of its contribution to human questions of the highest order.”
Dr. Montás earned his bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. degrees from Columbia University. His research specializes in Antebellum American literature and culture, with a particular interest in American citizenship.
For the lecture, the University will follow current health and safety guidelines as outlined in the Royals Back Together plan, which include the wearing higher grade masks (e.g. N95, KN95 or KF94) or double masking (e.g. a cloth mask worn over a surgical mask) in indoor spaces on campus.
For more information about the lecture, contact Matthew Meyer, Ph.D, professor of philosophy and faculty director of the University’s Gail and Francis Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities, at matthew.meyer@scranton.edu.
Liberal Education for Human Freedom to be Discussed
Alumni and friends of the University are invited to attend "Walking Through Life With Ignatius," a webinar on spirituality and service sponsored by a partnership between Ignatian Volunteer Corps and alumni offices within the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, Feb. 16 at noon. To register, visit this link.
The webinar's panelists will discuss a wide variety of topics, including how God calls us in different ways at different times in our lives, how our relationship with God changes as we accrue wisdom and experience, and how we can enhance our spirituality as we age through prayer and service in the Ignatian tradition.
The following panelists will appear at the webinar:
Barbara Lee
Barbara Lee is a spiritual director and writer who lives in New York City. She is a retired lawyer and has served for more than twenty years as a member of the Ignatian Volunteer Corps. She is the author of "God Isn’t Finished With Me Yet: Discovering the Spiritual Graces of Later Life" and "Answering God’s Call: A Scripture-Based Journey for Older Adults."
Brigid Farrell Dunn
Brigid Farrell Dunn grew up in Orchard Park, New York. A graduate of Le Moyne College, she taught at her alma mater as an adjunct professor in the Gender & Women's Studies Department. After college, she spent two years in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and then earned a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) at Yale. She has been a grant writer, campus minister, development officer, teacher and chaplain. Brigid became Board Certified by the Association of Professional Chaplains in 2015. She resides in Fayetteville, New York, with her husband and their two daughters.
Jason Downer, S.J.
Jason Downer, S.J., is a Jesuit priest currently missioned to Le Moyne College where he serves as Campus Minister for Ignatian Ministry. He is also a spiritual director with training in offering the 19th Annotation of the Spiritual Exercises. Since joining the Jesuits in 2010, Jason has lived in many parts of the United States and abroad, but is happy to call Syracuse, NY home for a while.
John W. Green (moderator)
A 2001 graduate of the Boston College School of Social Work, John W. Green's orientation towards service began during his post-college year when he entered the Jesuit Volunteer Corps serving in Portland, ME. As he sought out his next steps in professional development, his desire to pursue social work and commitment to the Ignatian value of service to others lead him to Boston College, where he developed clinical skills and built a solid foundation for administrative leadership. He now serves as the director of the Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) Philadelphia/South Jersey and the vice president of partnership engagement for the IVC National Office.
All registrants will receive a recording of the webinar. For more information, contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at alumni@scranton.edu or 570-941-5997.
Join Us for a Webinar on Ignatian Spirituality and Service Feb. 16
Scranton alumni who are working in the field of law or who are currently enrolled in law school are encouraged to join the Council of Alumni Lawyers (CAL). CAL members utilize their experience and education to actively support faculty, staff and administrators in leading the educational and professional development of Scranton students who plan to enter the field of law. To join, visit this link.
Already a member? Recently graduated law school? Make sure to send your current employment information to alumni@scranton.edu.
Council Of Alumni Lawyers Seeks Members
This February, several events are scheduled to honor Black History Month with offerings that provide opportunities for celebration and learning for both the greater Scranton and University of Scranton communities.
The University is hosting a special diversity and inclusion event “Jesuits & Slavery: A History in Search of Understanding” featuring Rev. David Collins, S.J., Haub Director of Catholic Studies and Associate Professor of History at Georgetown University on Tuesday, Feb. 15 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Fr. Collins is an internationally recognized expert in processes of historical truth and reconciliation and led Georgetown University’s Working Group on Slavery, Memory and Reconciliation, which has garnered national attention since 2015. This event will provide an overview of the participation by the Society of Jesus in slaveholding from the 16th to the 19th centuries and will explore what this legacy of racial injustice and anti-Black racism means for all U.S. Jesuit institutions, including The University of Scranton, today.
This presentation with Q&A and discussion will take place via Zoom and University of Scranton community members can join an in-person watch party. Registration is required here. This event is co-sponsored by the University’s Jesuit Center, Office of Equity and Diversity, Council on Diversity and Inclusion’s Institutional Black History subcommittee, Multicultural Center, and Office of Community Relations.
On Saturday, Feb. 5 the Black Scranton Project honors the start of Black History Month with the third annual Pan-African Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall at 12:00 p.m. Members of the public are invited to meet at the steps of City Hall to reflect, honor, and celebrate the pivotal role Black Americans have played in shaping national identity and culture. For more information on the Black Scranton Project and other upcoming events, please visit this link.
Also downtown, the Ritz Theatre is offering Black History month events, including a performance by Rebel Stages on Sat, Feb. 12 of the musical AIN'T MISBEHAVIN! Tickets are available here. On Sat, Feb 26, the Ritz is hosting "INCLUDED - A CELEBRATION OF DIVERSITY: A Night of Gospel Music.” This is a free event with donations benefiting their Scholarship Fund. For more information, including if you are interested in performing, contact Carole Mason at carole_mason217@yahoo.com.
The University of Scranton Multicultural Center is hosting several programs for university students during February. Events include a Dialogue on Race, Racism, and Identity: Gerrymandering & Voting Rights on Wednesday, Feb. 9 at 8 p.m. and a film screening of John Lewis: Good Trouble followed by a discussion will be held on Thursday, Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. in the PNC Auditorium in the Loyola Science Center. Additional events include awareness table sits, a trivia night and presentation on systemic racism and its effects. University students can visit the Multicultural Center’s website to view the complete list.
Additional events may be added as the month continues. Check back here or on Facebook.
Scranton Honors Black History Month
The University of Scranton Police Department recently presented a half-day workshop on de-escalation strategies to nearly 40 local law enforcement officers, including college police and security personnel and municipal officers. The free workshop sought to reduce injuries and the need to use physical force by training officers to safely and effectively respond to situations involving people in crisis with effective communication and active listening. The workshop was funded through a grant from the Scranton Area Community Foundation.
For more information on University Police, visit this link.
University Police Provide De-Escalation Training To Local Law Enforcement
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Daniel F. Battafarano, D.O. ’77, San Antonio, Texas, was recognized with the designation of Master by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) at the annual meeting in November 2021 for outstanding contributions to the ACR and the field of rheumatology through scholarly achievement and service to patients, teaching and the profession.
Thomas E. Sheridan, Jr. ’79, Hawley, was named president and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank.
John E. Littel ’86, Virginia Beach, Virginia, has been chosen to serve as the Commonwealth of Virginia’s secretary of health and human resources by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin.
Bernard F. King ’87, Worcester, has been named Chief Operating Officer for GRAM Aseptic Manufacturing. GRAM specializes in the formulation, filling and packaging of sterile pharmaceutical products including COVID vaccines and other lifesaving products.
Carol Hee, Ph.D. ’95, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, has been awarded the Johnston Teaching Excellence Award for outstanding contributions to undergraduate teaching at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Hee has taught environmental science and sustainability studies for 13 years at UNC-CH and joined Duke University's Nicholas School of the Environment as an associate adjunct professor in 2020.
Sean P. Morgan ’97, Solana Beach, California, a supervisory boarder patrol agent of the United States Border Patrol, recently received three awards for actions taken in the line of duty. In August 2021, he received his second Border Patrol Achievement Medal for leading a team of agents that made over 300 felony arrests and 1,000 misdemeanor arrests during the previous year. Later that same month he received his third Border Patrol Achievement Medal for rescuing a driver who became entrapped in a car, which was also leaking gasoline. In September 2021, Moran was awarded the Border Patrol Commendation Medal with Valor, the agency's second highest award for bravery, after Moran and two other agents located a wanted felon. They pursued the suspect and later took him into custody after a standoff in the suspect's car. The suspect was arrested on three felony charges stemming from the attempted murder of his girlfriend. Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Moran has served in the Border Patrol for almost 25 years.
Henry Yampolsky ’02, Salem, Virginia, will have his book, "Dis-Solving Conflict from Within: an Inner Path for Conflict Transformation," released by the Global Collective Publishers on May 16, 2022. This book will be available everywhere books are sold. Yampolsky currently serves as assistant director for Education, Outreach, and Conflict Resolution at Virginia Tech’s Office for Equity and Accessibility and teaches Mediation, Conflict Resolution, and Peace Building as part of Virginia Tech’s Center for Peace Studies and Violence Prevention.
Genelle Hoban Sedon ’04, G’07, Wilkes-Barre, is the owner and director of C & G Tutoring. The tutoring service, which began with just three tutors and now has over twenty, offers both in-person and virtual tutoring sessions. The tutoring service has reached more than 250 students in the Wyoming Valley from pre-k all the way through college. Sedon’s goal is to try to help local students earn scholarships and gain acceptance to the universities of their choice.
Colleen M. Degnan ’11, Horsham, has joined Fox Rothschild LLP in Blue Bell, Pa., as an Associate in the Corporate Department. As a member of the firm's Corporate Department, Degnan advises clients on a broad range of transactions and agreements, including public finance, procurement and real estate matters.
WEDDINGS
Angela Stewart ’14 to Giancarlo Bellone ’16
BIRTHS
A daughter, Renee Louise, to Joseph ’03, MBA ’13 and Ingrid Stein Garofalo ’03, Hackettstown, New Jersey
A daughter, Sofia Carmel, was born Oct. 10 in NYC to Patrick and Alexandra Mickler Auth ’08, Hoboken, New Jersey
A daughter, Willa, to Kevin and Cate McKenna Furman ’09, Newtown Square
A daughter, Eliana Grace, to John ’14 and Alexis Ribeiro Spadaro ’15, Florham Park, New Jersey
DEATHS
William A. Quinn ’49, Mountainside, New Jersey
Kenneth A. Roth ’54, Centerville, Ohio
Edward J. Sunday ’59, Scranton
John J. Ferry, M.D. ’60, Omaha, Nebraska
Joseph J. Farrell ’63, The Villages, Florida
Louis J. Nardella, Sr. ’65, Scranton
Walter J. Borowski ’71, Scranton
Merrill Mayenschein ’76, Covington Township
Kenneth J. Reuther G’77, Moscow
Richard J. Chukonis G’79, Wilkes-Barre
William J. Katorkas ’80, Newark, Delaware
Ralph J. Kurtz ’83, Old Forge
Jeffrey J. Butler ’87, Okemos, Michigan
FRIENDS' DEATHS
Felicia Domiano, wife of Anthony Domiano, Sr. ’60; mother of Anthony Domiano, Jr. ’84 and Marie Domiano ’85
George Grech, father of Thomas J. Grech '84 and Robert Grech '87
Alumni Class Notes, February 2022
Accounting students from The University of Scranton will follow an adjusted contactless process to assist local residents with filing their federal, state and local tax returns as part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The process for this year has been adjusted to because of COVID-19 health and safety guidelines.
The free service is available to residents of Lackawanna and Wayne counties with household incomes of $57,000 or less for 2021.
Qualified clients can provide the information needed to complete tax forms (see below) in a secure “drop-off box” located in the University Police Department, 820 Mulberry Street, beginning Feb. 7. Forms will be processed remotely by University student volunteers. Clients will be contacted by phone or email with any questions and when their tax forms have been filed electronically. The documents provided, or copies of documents if originals were needed for filing, will be then returned to participants.
- Documents need for filing tax forms include:
- name, email and phone number;
- a copy of the taxpayer’s driver’s license (and spouse’s if applicable);
- a copy of Social Security cards for the taxpayer, the spouse, and any dependents;
- all Wage and earning statements, including, but not limited to:
- Form W-2 (employees);
- W-2G (gambling winnings);
- 1099-R (retirement withdrawals);
- 1099-Misc, 1099-NEC(miscellaneous income) and any related expenses;
- 1099-G (unemployment income);
- 1099-SA (Social Security statement);
- 1099-B (sales of stock);
- interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099-INT and 1099-DIV);
- a copy of last year’s federal and state returns, if available;
- a voided check for proof of bank account routing and account numbers for direct deposit;
- forms 1095-A, B and C, health coverage statements;
- any information pertinent to deductions and credits the taxpayer may be eligible for, such as:
- 1098-T for anyone on the tax return who attended a higher education institution during 2020;
- totals paid to daycare providers and the daycare provider's tax identifying number such as their Social Security number or business Employer Identification Number, name, and address;
- for those who qualify for a property tax or rent rebate (age 65 and older, a widow/widower, disabled, and within certain income limits), copies of property tax receipts for any property taxes paid during the 2020 tax year;
- list of charitable donations;
- also note if you received the economic impact payment? (late 2020 or early 2021) $600/ taxpayer-spouse and each qualifying child.
Residents can include information above in an envelope and place it in the “drop-off box” in the University Police Department, 820 Mulberry Street, weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., beginning Monday, Feb. 7. The program will end when the capacity to process tax forms received has been met.
Residents with questions may call the University at 570-941-4045.
University students have participated in the VITA program for more than 30 years.
Contactless Income Tax Assistance Offered
On Sunday, Feb. 13 at 3 p.m., Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a Valentine’s Day Eve Concert featuring The University of Scranton Jazz Band and special guest Arnt Arntzen. The 3 p.m. concert will take place in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue.
The concert is open to invited guests and all members of the University community. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis. All audience members are required to wear a higher-grade mask (N95, KN95, KF94 or double masking) at all times. University campus access and other health and safety information will be updated throughout the semester and can be seen on the Royals Back Together webpage. Please check Performance Music’s website, scranton.edu/music, within 24 hours of the recital for the most current information on audience COVID-19 mitigation measures (e.g., masking, vaccination, distancing, etc.).
The concert will feature a variety of songs about love and heartbreak, according to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga. Arntzen and the band will combine to perform a number of songs together, there will be several solo pieces during the concert featuring only Arntzen, and two pieces will feature the band alone.
A very talented banjoist, guitarist and singer, Arntzen plays regularly with Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks, as well as the Louis Armstrong Eternity Band at Birdland. He is a traditional jazz specialist who has performed with the Three Generations of Jazz band with his grandfather Lloyd, parents Georgina and Tom, brother Evan and a number of other family members and has also co-led the Brothers Arntzen with his brother Evan.
In addition, Arntzen has collaborated with numerous other ensembles in New York and Vancouver, including Baby Soda Jazz Band, Gordon Webster Swing Band, Avalon Jazz Band and many more. Though mostly a sideman, he also leads small groups exploring obscure parts of the American jazz lexicon from the early part of the 20th century.
The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles. There is no music major at the University, and all enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) from every major are eligible for membership in the University bands, choirs and string ensembles, with neither an audition nor enrollment fee required for membership. Hundreds of students participate in the ensembles each year, and a number of University faculty, staff and alumni perform with them.
Performance Music’s large ensembles include Concert/Symphonic Band, Concert Choir/Singers, String Orchestra and Jazz Ensemble (big band format). Smaller groups are made up of members from within the large ensembles, and include Steel Drum Band, Percussion Ensemble, Flute Ensemble, Trumpet Ensemble and Clarinet Ensemble, plus other small vocal and instrumental groups in various formats. Solo, duo and trio performance opportunities are available to members of the ensembles through the general recitals held each semester.
Other programs within the department, including guest artist concerts, World Premiere Composition Series, Nelhybel Collection and Scranton Brass Orchestra, closely coordinate programming with the student ensembles and offer unique opportunities for student musicians in the ensembles to hear, observe, interact and perform with numerous world-class musicians and artist-teachers.
High school juniors and seniors who are considering applying to Scranton are encouraged to contact Performance Music to arrange to sit in on a rehearsal, meet the staff, attend a concert or tour the building.
For further information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music. For more info on Arntzen, visit arntmusic.com.
Arnt Arntzen and University Jazz Band to Perform
The Weinberg Memorial Library is seeking submissions for its annual exhibit of Environmental Art.
The art show will be held in the Heritage Room of the Weinberg Memorial Library from April 19-26, 2022.
The theme for 2022 is Everything is Connected: Celebrating our Connection with the Natural Environment. We encourage artists to consider developing artwork around this year’s theme. Submissions are open to all, and we encourage submissions by University of Scranton students, staff, faculty and alumni.
For more information, click here.
The deadline for submissions is set for Wednesday, March 30, 2022. Virtual art can be submitted here.
If you would like to submit but have questions or need assistance with your submission, please contact Environmental Art Show Coordinator Marleen Cloutier at marleen.cloutier@scranton.edu.
2022 Environmental Art Show - Call for Art
January
View January Listing Page
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical and health services managers in May 2017 was $98,350.
The University of Scranton’s Bachelor of Science degree in health administration affords students the opportunity to choose a concentration between a health administration generalist program or a long-term administration program. The former aims to provide students with a broad base knowledge of employment opportunities in various facilities, while the latter focuses on preparation for job opportunities within long-term care facilities such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
Scranton’s program holds full undergraduate membership in the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA) and is one of just 11 programs nationwide to be approved for its long-term care administration curriculum by the National Association of Long-Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB).
Experiential learning is emphasized in the health administration program where students complete a three-credit, 120-hour internship and 80 hours of community-based learning in their four years. Past internship sites include AseraCare Hospice, Clarks Summit Senior Living, Jefferson Health System, Lebanon Valley Advanced Care Center and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Recent graduates have been employed by various health care providers in the eastern U.S. such as Memorial Sloan Kettering, Geisinger Health System, Lehigh Valley Health Care System and Allied Services.
Scranton graduates who choose to pursue graduate-level education in health administration-related programs have been accepted at schools such as Columbia University and New York University, as well as The University of Scranton, which also offers a master’s degree in health administration.
The In-Demand Field of Health Administration
The University of Scranton awarded faculty development intersession grants for 2022 to eight faculty members.
Hope Baylow, D.A., assistant professor of health and human performance, received a grant to research “Voice Problems and Quality of Life in Individuals with Marfan Syndrome.” She earned her bachelor’s degree from Hofstra University, her master’s degree from Long Island University and her doctoral degree from Adelphia University. She has worked for the University since 2020.
Hengameh Hosseini, Ph.D., assistant professor of health administration and human resources, received a grant to research the “Development of a new Undergraduate Minor in Public Health.” She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Tehran, her master’s degree from King’s College and her doctoral degree from Marywood University. She has worked for the University since 2018.
Joseph Pellegrino, Ph.D., assistant professor of health and human performance, received a grant to research the “Quantification of the Physical Load and Physiological Strain on Division III Women’s Basketball Players.” He earned his bachelor’s degree from Cook College, his master’s degree from the University of Montana and his doctoral degree from Rutgers University. He has worked for the University since 2019.
Abhijit Roy, D.B.A., professor of management, marketing and entrepreneurship, received a grant to research “A Hierarchical Model of Social Justice Initiatives by the Jesuits: Embeddedness of Social Entrepreneurship and Social Innovation.” He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Allahabad, his master’s and M.B.A. degrees from the University of Arizona and his doctoral degree from Boston University. He has worked for the University since 2006.
Janette Scardillo, D.P.T., faculty specialist for the Physical Therapy Department, received a grant to research “Utilizing Best Practice to Implement Simulation-based Experiences in the DPT Curriculum.” She earned her bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from The University of Scranton. She has worked for the University since 2017.
Yamile Silva Gualteros, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of World Languages and Cultures, received a grant to research “A Critical Edition of Dominican Writer Abigail Meja’s Transatlantic Journalism.” She earned her bachelor’s degree from Los Andes University, and her master’s degree and doctoral degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She has worked for the University since 2009.
Brian Snee, Ph.D., assistant professor of communication and media, received a grant to research “Columbus Uncancelled: Reflective Rhetoric in the Third and Fourth Personae.” He earned his bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton, and his master’s degree and doctoral degree from the Pennsylvania State University. He has worked for the University since 2020.
Hank Willenbrink, Ph.D., associate professor of English and theatre, received a grant to research “The Wyoming Option: Will Arbery, Rod Dreher and Conservative Catholicism.” He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Tulsa, and his master’s degree and doctoral degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He has worked for the University since 2009.
Intersession Grants Awarded to Faculty
Spring 2022 Weekly Wellness Classes- in-person and Masks Required
Check out CHEW's Weekly Wellness Class offerings on RoyalSync, IM Leagues or email chew@scranton.edu.
All classes are open to students, faculty and staff.
Please sign CHEW'S Weekly Wellness Class Waiver if you didn't last semester (Click here.)
One waiver covers all CHEW's Weekly Wellness Classes.
Mondays - 5:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. - Mindfulness Meditation-Library Room 305
5:00-6:00 p.m. Light Weights & Abs- Byron Royals Room -(Faculty & Staff only)
Tuesdays - 6:00 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. - POUND-Byron Royals Room
Wednesdays - 12:15 p.m. -12:45 p.m. - Lunchtime Yoga Flow- Byron Royals Room
5:00-6:00 p.m. Light Weights & Abs- Byron Royals Room -(Faculty & Staff only)
Thursdays - 5:00 p.m. -5:45 p.m. - Energizing Yoga- Byron Royals Room
CHEW's Weekly Wellness Classes
This is an excerpt of an article from AJCU's Connections.
Frequently, I ask students why they chose The University of Scranton. Unfailingly, they mention the strong sense of community, proximity to family and friends, a wide array of majors offered, or amazing food on campus. Many will also share how their Scranton education is transformational. However, for one group of students, their Scranton education is not just personally transformative, but life-changing for their entire family.
First-generation college students (sometimes referred to as “first-gen” students) are the first in their family to attend a four-year college or university in the U.S. First-gen students make up 22 percent of the undergraduate student body at Scranton. To meet the diverse needs of our first-gen students and foster their success at Scranton, we launched the THR1VE program in 2019. In the spirit of cura personalis, THR1VE programming celebrates and supports first-generation students throughout their time at the University.
Continue reading in Connections, here.
Helping First-Generation College Students Achieve Endless Possibilities
The University ranked among the best in the nation for several of its online programs by U.S. News & World Report and for contribution to the public good by Washington Monthly.
Scranton Nationally Ranked for Doing Public Good
The University of Scranton ranked No. 84 among the 616 master’s universities in the nation included in a 2021 listing by Washington Monthly that seeks to rate colleges based on their contribution to the public good. Published in the September/October issue of the magazine and online, Washington Monthly analyzed numerous data sets to determine an overall rank, as well as a score and rank of colleges for “research,” “social mobility” and “community and national service.” Scranton ranked No. 34, No. 187 and No. 115, respectively, in these categories among master’s universities.
Continue reading, here.
Scranton Online Programs Among the Best in the Nation
U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 “Best Online Graduate Programs” ranked The University of Scranton’s online master’s degree programs in business (excluding MBA) at No. 55 and its online MBA program at No. 98 in the nation. U.S. News also ranked Scranton at No. 65 in the country for “Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans.”
This is the 11th consecutive year that U.S. News ranked the University’s online programs among the best in the nation. The methodology used by U.S. News to determine the ranking has changed several times throughout the years.
Continue reading, here.
Several Recent Rankings Place Scranton Among Top in the Nation
Access to our campus continues to be restricted this Spring due to the COVID-19 health crisis. Therefore, our weekday and Sunday Masses on campus at this time are limited to current students, faculty and staff of the University. Royal Card access is required. Masks are required.
Sunday Mass will be offered at 11:00 a.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. (January 30 – May 15) in Madonna della Strada chapel when school is in session.
Please note:
* There will be no 7 p.m. Mass on Sunday, Feb. 13 due to the Super Bowl.
* There will be no Masses on campus during spring break.
* There will be a 7 p.m. Mass only on Sunday, March 20 (return from spring break).
* There will be two Masses on Palm Sunday (April 10): 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
* There will be no Masses or services during the Easter holiday.
Weekday Masses will be offered Monday thru Saturday at 12:05 pm (January 26 – May 20)
in Sacred Heart Chapel when school is in session.
Special Masses:
· On Ash Wednesday (March 2) Mass and distribution of ashes will take place at 12:05 p.m., 4:40 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom (DeNaples Center).
Information About Masses at Scranton During the Spring 2022 Semester
As the spring semester begins on Wednesday at The University of Scranton, athletics action heated up over several sports last week. Headlining the week was the extension of winning streaks by women's swimming & diving (who are unbeaten on the year), women's basketball, and men's basketball. Meanwhile, the track & field teams picked up their indoor season for the first time in over a month.
For that and more on the week that was in Scranton Athletics, check out this week's Royal Review by clicking here.
To follow University of Scranton Athletics all season long, remember to follow the Royals on Twitter and Instagram @RoyalAthletics.
Royal Review: Women's Swimming and Diving/Basketball Teams Continue Winning Ways
Over the past several weeks, the University has shared important updates for the Royals Back Together plan that are effective with the start of the spring semester on Wednesday, January 26, 2022. Providing important details concerning boosters, masking and other protocols, previous communications consisted of the following:
Additional Information Regarding Health and Safety Plan for the Spring Semester, January 24, 2022
Health and Safety Updates for the Spring Semester, January 14, 2022
Additional Information for Spring Plan, January 20, 2022
Additional Information Regarding Updates to the Royals Back Together Plan, January 20, 2022
Please note, the University will distribute a limited supply of free higher grade masks to students at the mailroom of the DeNaples Center.
The most up-to-date information will continue to be posted on the Royals Back Together website.
Royals Back Together Spring 2022 Update
During the spring semester, University of Scranton professors will share their passion and expertise at three different Schemel Forum courses that run in six weekly sessions from 6 to 7:15 p.m. in-person at the University’s Weinberg Memorial Library, or remotely via a zoom link.
Sean Brennan, Ph.D., professor of history at the University, will present “James Bond and the Cold War” on the following Tuesdays: February 1, 8, 15 and 22; and March 1 and 8.
One of the most famous fictional characters to come out of the British Isles, Ian Fleming’s superspy James Bond has been a constant presence in books, films, video games and merchandise for almost seventy years. This course will put Bond back into the context of the Cold War from the 1950s to the 1980s. It will begin with an examination of Fleming’s novels and how they connect to his own background in espionage and then move to the films from the Connery to Dalton eras, ranging from “Dr. No” to “The Living Daylights.”
Christopher E. Fremaux, Ph.D., assistant professor of philosophy at the University, will present “Moral Citizenship: The Enlightenment Vision of the Ethical Community” on the following Thursdays: February 3, 10, 17 and 24; and March 3 and 10.
“Among the plethora of issues that mark our contemporary political discourse is a growing skepticism of the practicality, and perhaps even the value, of democratic institutions,” said Dr. Fremaux. “Helping to fuel this skepticism is disagreement over a perennial issue in political philosophy: the relation between the individual and the community.” The course will examine this topic by exploring a vision of society first articulated in the Enlightenment: the vision of an ethical community, i.e., a political community structured according to moral principles
Dr. Fremaux added, “We will focus upon the ideas of four philosophers in particular: Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Immanuel Kant, Johann Fichte and Georg Hegel. Taken collectively, these philosophers put forward the clearest articulation of the ethical community. By exploring their ideas, we will develop a moral conception of citizenship in view of which we are obligated to work for the sake of the common, not simply the individual, good.”
“Police as Guardians in a Time of War” will be taught by Michael J. Jenkins, Ph.D., associate professor and chair the Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice and Criminology, and executive director of the Center for the Analysis and Prevention of Crime (CAPoC) at the Univeristy. The course will meet on the following Wednesdays: February 9, 16 and 23; and March 2, 9 and 23.
This course will first discuss the Anglo-Peelian roots of police as maintainers of order. Findings from key court cases and commissions on policing will serve as an overview of the modern history of policing in the United States. The course will conclude with present controversies in policing and debate ideas for aligning the need for maintaining orderly communities with the mandate of ensuring justice.
The courses are free for University students, faculty, staff and Schemel Forum members. For non-members, the in-person fee is $75 per individual and $125 per couple, and $60 for remote-only.
To register for the courses, contact Alicen Morrison, Schemel Forum assistant, at 570-941-6206 or alicen.morrison@scranton.edu. To pay by credit card over the phone, contact Kym Fetsko at 570-941-7816, or to pay online, visit: www.scranton.edu/schemelforum.
For more information on Schemel Forum programs and memberships, contact Sondra Myers, Schemel Forum director, at 570-941-4089 or sondra.myers@scranton.edu.
Schemel Forum Courses Set for In-Person and Zoom
This spring, the Office of Community-Based Learning is pleased to provide an encore to last spring’s inaugural “CBL Talks” series with a “CBL Talk: Youth in Scranton” on Wednesday, Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. in the Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. This CBL Talk will feature community leaders from the Scranton School District and NEPA Youth Shelter who work with K-12 youth in the local area. They will discuss the programs they run and the challenges, hopes, and dreams of the youth they encounter along the way.
This event will feature guest speakers Mina Ardestani, principal at McNichols Elementary Plaza and founder of Presence from Prison, and Maureen Maher-Gray, executive director and founder of the NEPA Youth Shelter. Speakers will discuss the city of Scranton’s youth population, which represents the diversity of the community, faces poverty at a high rate, has endured the pandemic as children, and are poised to inherit a world with many difficulties, including global climate change. Despite the many challenges, there are also great opportunities for the youth of Scranton, and they bring with them innovative ideas and aspirations for our future. This talk will align with the Jesuit universal apostolic preference “Journey with Youth” in which Superior General, Fr. Arturo Sosa, S.J., has called on all of us to “accompany young people in the creation of a hope-filled future.”
Registration is required for this event at: surveymonkey.com/r/ScrantonYouth2022
The Office of Community-Based Learning plans to record this event to serve as a resource for CBL faculty and will also provide reflection questions after the event for university students to utilize in considering the information shared. “To go” snacks will be provided. This event is sponsored by the Office of Community-Based Learning in collaboration with the Office of Community and Government Relations, the Center for Service and Social Justice and the Jesuit Center.
CBL Faculty and University students are also encouraged to “Save the Date” for a “CBL Walk: West Scranton” on Friday, April 22 at 3 p.m. This CBL Walk will offer University students the opportunity to engage with the West Scranton area by meeting with representatives from community-partner organizations and local business owners and exploring a part of Scranton’s West Side neighborhood.
For more information on the “CBL Talk” and “CBL Walk,” please visit scranton.edu/CBLTalks.
This spring’s “CBL Talk” and “CBL Walk” builds upon the “CBL Talks” series first offered in the spring semester of 2021 during the period of remote format community-based learning due to the pandemic. This series was created by the Office of Community-Based Learning in collaboration with various campus partners to give university students a way to learn about the city of Scranton’s people, challenges and opportunities and how students can be a part of positive change. Over 280 students and faculty attended these events which focused on topics: Black Scranton Then and Now, Economic Insecurity Amidst a Pandemic, and Immigrant Inclusion. The CBL Office is excited to continue this programming to foster community-engaged learning, discussion, collaboration and solidarity.
For questions, please contact community@scranton.edu.
CBL Talk to Share Insights on Youth in Scranton
More than 1,650 students were named to The University of Scranton’s Dean’s List for the 2021 fall semester. The Dean’s List recognizes students for academic excellence. A student must have a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a minimum number of credit hours during the semester to make the Dean’s List. The list includes students from the Jesuit university’s College of Arts and Sciences, Kania School of Management and Panuska College of Professional Studies.
University Announces Fall 2021 Dean’s List
The following students were added to The University of Scranton Dean’s List for the spring 2021 semester after publication of the list in June of 2021.
The Dean’s List recognizes students for academic excellence during the 2021 spring semester. A student must have a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a minimum number of credit hours to make the Dean’s List. The list includes students from the Jesuit university’s College of Arts and Sciences, the Kania School of Management and the Panuska College of Professional Studies.
Students added to the spring 2021 Dean’s List are:
Students Added to Spring 2021 Dean’s List
U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 “Best Online Graduate Programs” ranked The University of Scranton’s online master’s degree programs in business (excluding MBA) at No. 55 and its online MBA program at No. 98 in the nation. U.S. News also ranked Scranton at No. 65 in the country for “Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans.”
This is the 11th consecutive year that U.S. News ranked the University’s online programs among the best in the nation. The methodology used by U.S. News to determine the ranking has changed several times throughout the years.
For the 2022 Best Online Programs ranking, which published January 25, U.S. News reviewed statistical information submitted by schools. The ranking criteria differed by category. The criteria used by U.S. News to rank online business and MBA programs included student engagement (30 percent), which looked at graduation rates, class size, one-year retention rates, and best practices such as accreditation by AACSB International, among other factors. The ranking criteria also included peer reputation score (25 percent); faculty credentials and training (15 percent); admission selectivity (15 percent); and student services and technology (15 percent).
In addition to offering distance education programs that incorporate coursework that is predominantly online, colleges and universities making the “Best Online Program for Veterans” list must have ranked in top half of 2022 Best Online Program rankings; be regionally accredited; be certified for the GI Bill and participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program; and enroll a “critical mass of veterans” as defined by U.S. News based on the size of the college.
Scranton offers online MBA degrees in general business, accounting, business analytics, enterprise resource planning, finance, healthcare management, human resources, international business and operations management; master’s degrees in accountancy, business analytics, finance, health administration, health informatics and human resources and a dual MBA/MHA degree, in addition to graduate certificates. For technology, recruitment and marketing support, the University partners with Wiley for the online programs.
In other rankings published by U.S. News, Scranton has been ranked among the top 10 “Best Regional Universities in the North” for 28 consecutive years. Scranton is ranked No. 5 in the 2022 edition of the guidebook. U.S. News also ranked Scranton No. 14 in its category for “Best Undergraduate Teaching.” U.S. News also ranked Scranton No. 14 in its category in its “Best Undergraduate Teaching” listing of the top colleges in the nation expressing “a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching,” among other rankings.
Scranton Online Programs Among Best in Nation
The University of Scranton recognized students and their elementary and high school teachers, who they credit for contributing to their success, with Rose Kelly Awards at a recent virtual ceremony.
The Rose Kelly Award was established by University of Scranton alumnus Joseph Wineburgh, Ph.D., to link the efforts of educators to the achievements of college students. The award is presented jointly to a student in each of the University’s colleges who has completed two years at Scranton and to the teacher whom he or she recognizes as having a great impact in his or her life. Students are selected based on exemplary achievement in both academics and general campus involvement.
Emma Boyle, Peckville, received the Rose Kelly Award for the Kania School of Management. She honored Dana Marion, her kindergarten teacher at Lackawanna Trail Elementary Center. Boyle is an accounting major at Scranton.
Alexander Luancing, Easton, received the Rose Kelly Award for the College of Arts and Sciences. He honored Gina Rakos, his AP biology teacher at Nazareth Area High School. Luancing is a biology major at Scranton.
Anne Murphy, Flemington, New Jersey, received the Rose Kelly Award for the Panuska College of Professional Studies. She honored Chelsea D’Antonio her teacher at Hunterdon Central Regional High School. Murphy is a counseling and human services major at Scranton.
Rose Kelly Awards Presented at University
Eight students and two professors recently traveled to Arizona for 25 days for the Extreme Physiology intersession course. Olivia Pisarski '22, a physiology major in the course, talks about her experience. The class visited Tucson, Sedona, Grand Canyon and Flagstaff.
Tell us a little about the trip, Olivia!
This unique course exposes the student to the stunning and diverse environments of Arizona while investigating human physiological adaptation to extreme environmental and aerobic challenges. It is a travel course created by University of Scranton Biology Professor Terrence Sweeney. The course is offered every other year by Dr. Sweeney and Scranton faculty member Tara Fay.
What did you learn in this intersession course?
This course taught me how to properly fuel/take care of my body when exercising in diverse environments. However, the most memorable part of the trip was the group. We were so lucky to have eight amazing students and two faculty members who made this trip a course I will never forget!
This was my last college class at The University of Scranton. Once intersession ends, I will be graduated, and I could not have imagined ending my academic career in a better way than studying in the Arizona desert.
See a "Day in the Life" from this trip, here.
Students Study Physiological Adaptation in the Arizona Desert
The University of Scranton ranked No. 84 among the 616 master’s universities in the nation included in a 2021 listing by Washington Monthly that seeks to rate colleges based on their contribution to the public good. Published in the September/October issue of the magazine and online, Washington Monthly analyzed numerous data sets to determine an overall rank, as well as a score and rank of colleges for “research,” “social mobility” and “community and national service.” Scranton ranked No. 34, No. 187 and No. 115, respectively, in these categories among master’s universities.
Washington Monthly weighted equally the colleges’ scores for research, social mobility and service to calculate the overall ranking. The research score is based on each school’s research expenditure and the number of alumni earning Ph.D.s, relative to the size of the college. The social mobility score is based on actual and predicted graduation rates; student loan repayment rates; the percentage of students receiving Pell Grants; and the school’s average net price for full-time, in-state students with family incomes below $75,000 per year over the past three years, among other factors. The service score, also adjusted for the size of the school, is based on the size of the ROTC program; the number of alumni serving in the Peace Corps; and the percentage of federal work study grant money spent on community service projects and voter engagement, among other factors.
This is the 12th consecutive year Washington Monthly has included Scranton in its college rankings.
In other national rankings, U.S. News & World Report has ranked Scranton among the 10 top Regional Universities in the North for 28 consecutive years, and as a “Best Value” school for nine consecutive years. The Princeton Review included Scranton in its list “Best Colleges” for 20 consecutive years.
Scranton Nationally Ranked for Doing Public Good
For the third time, a University of Scranton accounting student was selected for the Institute of Management Accountants’ (IMA) “Jimmie Smith” Student Leadership Experience. This highly-selective program includes only five students from the around the world.
Emma Boyle of Peckville, will participate in a series of virtual meetings from January to May, 2022, focused on governance and volunteerism. The program will conclude in June with her attending the IMA’s Annual Meeting in Austin, Texas. Throughout the program, Boyle will be assigned a IMA’s Global Board of Director mentor to learn more about the IMA’s Global Board and explore future IMA volunteer leadership opportunities.
The other four students selected to participate are from Christ University in India, American University of Beirut in Lebanon, and Dixie State University in Nevada.
The IMA Selection Committee only chooses students from IMA Higher Education Endorsement Program member schools to attend this experience. The University of Scranton received its endorsement in November 2017. Just 62 colleges in the U.S. are currently endorsed by the IMA, and 40 colleges are endorsed internationally.
This is not the first year a University of Scranton student has attended the IMA Student Leadership Experience. Nicholas Varriano ’17, ‘G18, attended in 2018, and Nhu Nguyen ’19, attended in 2019.
Globally, IMA supports the profession through research, the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) program, continuing education, networking and advocacy of the highest ethical business practices. IMA has a global network of more than 140,000 members in 140 countries and over 300 professional and student chapters.
At Scranton Boyle is pursuing a major in accounting with a triple-minor in business analytics, business leadership and forensic accounting. On campus, she is a tour guide and Royal Ambassador. She currently serves as president for the University’s IMA Student Chapter, Beta Alpha Psi honor society, and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners Student Chapter.
Boyle previously interned with Neumentum, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and the University’s Career Development Office. She is currently completing an audit internship with Deloitte in the Philadelphia office. Upon graduation, Boyle plans to complete her Master of Accountancy at The University of Scranton with a concentration in accounting analytics.
Accounting Student Selected for Elite Program
The University of Scranton and community partners hosted three events recently as part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. The purpose of the two-year project is to explore the aspirational journey to fulfill our national ideals through the lens of Scranton, as an iconic “All American City” that has experienced many of the key elements of our nation’s experience: industrial era growth and decline, waves of immigration past and present, Black and Indigenous experiences, and a rich religious and neighborhood tapestry that is integral to Scranton’s community and resilience. Eight themes will involve a range of events, including lectures, dialogues, community workshops and story collection.
The recent events comprised the theme, “Portrait of Scranton, Portrait of a Nation,” and included a keynote address by Scranton-born author Jay Parini and local panelists on “Scranton in the Popular Imagination,” a Lackawanna Avenue “Jane Jacobs” walk to consider “what Scranton is, has been, and can be,” and a roundtable discussion on “Scranton and the Nation: Who are we and who do we aspire to be?”.
Upcoming events in winter of 2022 will focus on the U.S. Citizen and the American Founding and will include a book discussion (Feb. 3), lecture with guest scholars (March 1) and public dialogue (March 22) focused around the question: “Freedom and Our Founding – What do they mean for us today?” Spring 2022 events will focus on the Indigenous History of NEPA. For more information visit scranton.edu/scrantonstory.
Events Explore Story of Scranton
Note: Access to the campus is currently limited to members of the University community, invited guests and others as listed in the Royals Back Together plan. Campus access and other health and safety information will be updated throughout the semester and can be seen on the Royals Back Together webpage.
Feb. 3 5 p.m. Book Discussion: “Freedom: An Unruly History” led by Matt Meyers, Ph.D., professor of philosophy, University of Scranton. The event is part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project’s second theme, “The U.S. Citizen and the American Founding.” Offered in-person or in a virtual format. Registration required. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Feb. 4 through Mar. 4 Art Exhibit: “Beneath the Surface, Behind the Horizon: Sculptures and Drawings by Cynthia Myron.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Feb. 10 noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “Our Common Home: Vatican and Multifaith Engagement on Environment and Climate Justice” presented by Rabbi Daniel Swartz, spiritual leader, Temple Hesed and executive director, Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Feb. 13 3 p.m. Performance Music: “Valentine’s Day Eve Concert” featuring The University of Scranton Jazz Band with special guest Arnt Arntzen, banjo, guitar and voice. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Feb. 18 noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “Is Liberal Democracy Already History?” presented by Elzbieta Matynia, Ph.D., professor of sociology and liberal studies and director of the Transregional Center for Democratic Studies at the New School for Social Research. Kane Forum, Edward Leahy Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Feb. 20 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital” featuring John Wilson, pianist. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Mar. 1 5 p.m. Lecture with Q&A via Zoom - “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?” The event is part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project’s second theme, “The U.S. Citizen and the American Founding.” Registration required. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Mar. 3 noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “Linneaus’ Legacy: Corrupting Color to Serve Discrimination and Exploitation” presented by Kathy Johnson Bowles, executive director of the Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science and Art. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Mar. 14 noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “A Remarkable Tale of Law, Politics, and Religion: The Making of Kiryas Joel, a Hasidic Town in Upstate New York” presented David N. Myers, Ph.D., Sady and Ludwig Kahn professor of Jewish history at UCLA and director of the UCLA Luskin Center for History and Policy, and Nomi Stolzenberg, founder and co-director of the USC Center for Law, History and Culture. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Mar. 21 through Apr. 29 Art Exhibit: “Shinnecock Sites and Portraits: Photographs by Jeremy Dennis.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
Mar. 22 7 p.m. Public Dialogue on “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?” The event is part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project’s second theme, “The U.S. Citizen and the American Founding.” Registration required. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email community@scranton.edu.
Mar. 23 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “General Recital” featuring The University of Scranton Performance Music students in solo, duo, trio and small ensemble performances. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Mar. 24 noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “Window Into the Presidency: The White House Tapes and Their Meaning” presented by Fredrik Logevall, Ph.D., Laurence D. Belfer Professor of International Affairs, Harvard University. Rose Room, Brennan Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Mar. 26 9 a.m. Preview Day for accepted students to The University of Scranton’s class of 2026. Various locations on campus. Call 570-941-7540 or email admissions@scranton.edu.
Apr. 2 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital” featuring Kako Miura, violinist and friends. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Apr. 6 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “14th Annual Gene Yevich Memorial Concert” featuring Dr. Wycliffe A. Gordon with The University of Scranton Singers and Scranton Brass Orchestra. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Apr. 7 4 p.m. 2022 Annual ACHE Healthcare Symposium: “HEALTH’y Employees Lead to HEALTH’y Patients: Strategies to Support the Well-Being of Healthcare Professionals.” McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Registration required. Includes dinner, presentation and panel discussion. Fees vary. Call 484-632-6605 or email brooke.devers@scranton.edu.
Apr. 7 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring Dr. Wycliffe A. Gordon with The University of Scranton Jazz Band. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Apr. 20 4 p.m. Henry George Spring Lecture: “Evolution of Conventions of Behavior” presented by Andrew Schotter, Ph.D., professor of economics, New York University. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-4048 or email janice.mecadon@scranton.edu.
Apr. 22 noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: “Russia and the Post-Truth Society” presented by Jill Dougherty, former CNN’s Moscow bureau chief for almost a decade, Russian expert, adjunct professor at Georgetown University and a CNN on-air contributor. Kane Forum, Edward Leahy Hall or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Apr. 25 5:30 p.m. Schemel Forum Collaborative Program with the Jesuit Center, The University of Scranton: “A Schemel Legacy: The Engineer and the Monk” presented by Christopher F. Schemel, Ph.D., president Delta Q Consultants, Inc. and courtesy professor of chemical engineering, University of South Florida, and Brother Mario Joseph, Monastery of the Holy Spirit, Conyers, Georgia. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall or remote, reception follows. $25 fee. Registration required. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Apr. 27 4:30 p.m. Annual Math Integration Bee. Calculus based competition for both high school and college divisions. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Registration required. Call 570-941-6580 or email stacey.muir@scranton.edu.
Apr. 30-May 1 9 a.m. Saturday; noon Sunday. Friends of the Library Book and Plant Sale. Heritage Room, Weinberg Memorial Library. Call 570-941-7816 or email kym.fetsko@scranton.edu.
Apr. 30 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “39th Annual World Premiere Composition Series Concert” featuring The University of Scranton Concert Band and Concert Choir premiering two new commissioned works by guest composer/conductor Javier Nero. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
May 9-13 Art Exhibit: “The University of Scranton Student Exhibition.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu.
May 7 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital” featuring John Romeri, organist and John Romeri, flautist. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
May 14 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert” featuring The University of Scranton String Orchestra with special guests. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
May 21 TBA Graduate and Undergraduate Commencement. Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza. Wilkes-Barre. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
May 22 TBA Commencement Baccalaureate Mass. Byron Recreation Complex. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
Schemel Forum Courses
Tuesdays, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22 & Mar. 1, 8 6 p.m. Schemel Forum Evening Course: “James Bond and the Cold War” presented by Sean Brennan, Ph.D., professor of history, The University of Scranton. Weinberg Memorial Library or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Thursdays: Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24 & Mar. 3, 10 6 p.m. Schemel Forum Evening Course: “Moral Citizenship: The Enlightenment Vision of the Ethical Community” presented by Christopher E. Fremaux, Ph.D., assistant professor of philosophy, The University of Scranton. Weinberg Memorial Library or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Wednesdays: Feb. 9, 16, 23 & Mar. 2, 9, 23 6 p.m. Schemel Forum Evening Course: “Police as Guardians in a Time of War” presented by Michael J. Jenkins, Ph.D., chair and associate professor of sociology, criminal justice and criminology and executive director, Center for the Analysis and Prevention of Crime, The University of Scranton. Weinberg Memorial Library or remote. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
University Announces Planned Spring Semester Events
David Dzurec, Ph.D., was appointed associate dean for The University of Scranton’s College of Arts and Sciences, effective January 1, 2022.
Dr. Dzurec joined the faculty of the University’s History Department in 2008. During his time at Scranton, he has served as interim associate dean for the College of Arts and Sciences, interim executive director of the Slattery Center for the Ignatian Humanities, and was chair of the History Department from 2015 to 2021. He also served as vice president of the Faculty Senate, co-chair of the Faculty Senate Curriculum Committee, chair of the Conference Committee on Curriculum, faculty advisor, and held several leadership positions within the Faculty Affairs Council Executive Committee, including chair. He served as the University’s faculty athletics representative to the NCAA and as the faculty mentor for the University’s cross-country and track teams. In 2018, he received The University of Scranton Provost’s Award for Service and Leadership.
In the announcement of his appointment as associate dean, Jeff Gingerich, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president of academic affairs at the University, wrote that Dr. Dzurec brings “experience to the role, as well as his extensive Committee work, scholarship, and teaching.” He also noted “Dr. Dzurec has been a strong advocate for our Jesuit and Catholic identity, serving on the Jesuit Center Advisory Board” and that Dr. Dzurec “designed the First-year Faculty Seminar which he now co-facilitates with the Jesuit Center. This program, which focuses on Jesuit educational principles, emphasizes our Catholic and Jesuit mission and its flourishing within our community, both intellectually and personally.”
Dr. Dzurec’s research and teaching interests focus on the early United States, American Foreign Relations, and the history of the Jesuits in the United States. His publications include a book, “Our Suffering Brethren: Foreign Captivity and Nationalism in the Early United States,” and numerous articles in scholarly publications that include The Historian, War in History, The Journal of New York History, Catholic Historical Review, and The Journal of the Early Republic. In 2015, he served as a Fulbright Core Scholar, teaching American history and politics at Trnava University in Slovakia.
Dr. Dzurec earned his bachelor’s degree from Fairfield University, his master’s degree from the University of Connecticut and his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University.
David Dzurec, Ph.D., Named Associate Dean for CAS
Ashley L. Stampone ’10, G’11, faculty specialist in the Accounting Department of The University of Scranton, was named among the Northeast Pennsylvania Business Journal’s Top 20 Under 40. The list is the NEPA Business Journal’s “salute to the best and brightest young business stars in the region.” The publication has published the list annually since 2002.
The profile of Prof. Stampone can be seen on the NEPA Business Journal webpage.
In 2021, Prof. Stampone also received the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Young Leaders Award and the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) Ursel K. Albers IMA Campus Advocate of the Year Award. She received the University’s the Kania School of Management Professor of the Year twice, in 2021 and 2020. In 2019, Prof. Stampone was also honored with the IMA’s Faculty Leadership Award.
Prof. Stampone joined the faculty at Scranton in 2016. Previously, she worked as an internal auditor for QVC, Inc., as a senior financial systems analyst for Bridon American Corporation, as an inventory accountant for International Salt Company and a staff accountant for ParenteBeard, LLC.
A resident of Old Forge, Prof. Stampone received a bachelor’s degree in accounting and an MBA from The University of Scranton. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at Scranton.
Ashley Stampone Named Among NEPA Top 20 Under 40
Patrick Keehan ’19 ’G20, business consultant for The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center, recently earned the title of Certified Green Belt from the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC).
According to IASSC’s website, IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is “a professional who is well versed in the core to advanced elements of Lean Six Sigma Methodology,” which is a process that relies on a collaborative team effort to improve performance by systematically removing waste and reducing variation.
Keehan will use this knowledge and expertise to assist small business clients of the Scranton SBDC with problem identification, solutions and implementation as well as discussing simple ways to improve operational efficiency.
“It’s not just a method, but a mindset that will always be there and manifest itself in the advice I give and how I listen to clients,” said Keehan.
Keehan joined the SBDC in June 2020. He provides business consulting services to start-up and existing small business clients in the Scranton SBDC’s service area. He earned his MBA from The University of Scranton in 2020, and his bachelor’s degree in finance, summa cum laude, from the University in 2019. He also participated in the University’s Business Leadership Honors Program.
Scranton’s SBDC, housed in the University’s Kania School of Management, serves eight counties in Northeastern and Northern Tier Pennsylvania.
SBDC’s Patrick Keehan Earns Six Sigma Certification
Frank O’Hara medals were given to University of Scranton students with the highest grade-point averages in their first-, second- and third-year in the College of Arts and Sciences, the Kania School of Management and the Panuska College of Professional Studies for the 2020-21 academic year. The awards, named in honor of the late Frank O’Hara who served the University for 53 years in various administrative positions, were presented at a ceremony held recently on campus.
College of Arts and Sciences
Thomas Elias, Tunkhannock, received a medal for academic achievement for his freshman year. A recipient of the University’s full-tuition Presidential Scholarship, he is currently a sophomore double majoring in philosophy and theology and participates in the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. On campus, he is a class of 2024 senator in Student Government, treasurer of the Astronomy Club, a tour guide, and has a radio show on 99.5 WUSR. He is also a member of Christians for the Common Good and the Philosophy Society. Elias is involved with the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice, Campus Ministries, and research in the Physics Department.
Emily Amershek, New Ringgold, received a medal for academic achievement for her sophomore year. A recipient of the University’s full-tuition Presidential Scholarship, she is currently a junior majoring in philosophy and participates in the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. On campus, she is a tour guide, an orientation assistant, a Campus Ministries lector, a tutor for logic courses, and a teaching mentor for INTD 290. She is also a member the University Review Board, and has studied abroad in Israel and Palestine. Amershek represented the University of Scranton with Philadelphia Insurance Companies in the summer of 2021.
Sarah White, Brooklyn, New York, received a medal for academic achievement for her junior year. A recipient of the University’s full-tuition Presidential Scholarship, she is currently a senior double majoring in biology and philosophy and participates in the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program and the Magis Honors Program in STEM. On campus, she is a production manager of Esprit, co-founder of the Royal-Ties Program, vice president of The Royal Signers, co-president of Random Acts of Kindness, president of Alpha Sigma Nu and vice president of Phi Sigma Tau honor societies. She is also a tutor with the University’s Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, a P.A.C.T. peer facilitator, chair of the Team Development Committee of Relay for Life, and a lector with Campus Ministries. While working with the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice, White participated in the Craft for a Cause Program, the We Care Program, cross-campus Racial Justice Dialogues and a domestic outreach service program to St. Michaels, Arizona. White also participated in Michigan University’s Great Lakes Research Experience for Undergraduates in summer 2021
Kania School of Management
John Sheehan, Dumont, New Jersey received a medal for academic achievement for his freshman year. He is currently a sophomore majoring in accounting and participates in the University’s Business Honors Program. On campus, he is a member of the Institute of Management Accountants, Society of Accounting Students and helps with the Portfolio of Responsible Investments under Student Management, which is worth almost $1 million. He also served as an accounting tutor.
Alice Banks, Hazleton, received a medal for academic achievement for her sophomore year. She is currently a junior majoring in finance and participates in the University’s Business Honors program. On campus, she is a Royal Start Ambassador for first-year students and a resident assistant for junior and senior housing. She is a member of the Women’s Business Honor Society, the United Cultures Organization, Praise and Worship and the University of Scranton Black Student Union.
Marissa Angelo, Dickson City, received a medal for academic achievement for her junior year. She is currently a senior majoring in accounting and participates in the University’s Business Honors Program. On campus, she is co-vice president of the Kania School of Management’s Student Advisory Board and a junior officer for the Institute of Management Accountants Student Chapter. She is also a member of the Business Leadership Honors Program, Kania Women in Business Club, the University of Scranton Society of Accounting Students and Omega Beta Sigma honor society. Angelo received the 2021 Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Scholarship and won the PricewaterhouseCoopers case challenge in 2019 and 2020.
Panuska College of Professional Studies
Kathryn Regan, West Chester, received a medal for academic achievement for her freshman year. She is currently a sophomore majoring in kinesiology and participates in the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program and the Magis Honors Program in STEM. She is a member of the University’s Women’s Swimming and Diving Team. While working with the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice, she has participated in the Clothesline for Men and We Care Programs.
Alexis Angstadt, Jamison, received a medal for academic achievement for her sophomore year. She is currently a junior and is majoring in occupational therapy. On campus, she is a tutor with the University’s Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, a teaching assistant for OT anatomy, and a junior representative in the Student Occupational Therapy Association. She is also a member of the Kindness for Chemo Club and participates in various intramural sports. Angstadt has volunteered with St. Clare’s Food Pantry and Rock Steady Boxing, a boxing gym to help those with Parkinson’s disease.
Cristina Rodier, Nutley, New Jersey, received a medal for academic achievement for her sophomore year. She is currently a junior majoring in occupational therapy. She is a member of the Student Occupational Therapy Association and has participated in intramural soccer. She served at the University’s Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence as a note taker for the statistics in behavioral sciences course.
Kayla Maas, Barryville, New York, receives a medal for academic achievement for her junior year. She is currently a senior majoring in kinesiology. On campus, she is a member of the Kinesiology Club and volunteers with the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice. She serves as a teaching assistant for anatomy and physiology. Maas also works as a nursing assistant at Bon Secours Community Hospital in Port Jervis, New York.
University Students Receive Frank O’Hara Awards
The University of Scranton will join with the Greater Scranton Martin Luther King Commission to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King this weekend. The University will light a tribute for MLK Day on its Class of 2020 Gateway sign from Thursday evening, Jan. 13, through Monday evening, Jan. 17. The University will also host The Greater Scranton Martin Luther King Commission’s Annual Community Awards and Celebration program on Sunday, Jan. 16.
This year, the Greater Scranton MLK Commission’s Community Awards and Celebration will be presented as an interactive Zoom webinar with an audience Q and A. The program, which will begin at 2:30 p.m., is sponsored by Geisinger, with hosting support from the University’s Office of Community and Government Relations, Office of Equity and Diversity and Information Technology. The program is free and open to the public. Registration is required to attend.
The theme for 2022 community event is “Covid 19: Recognizing the trauma. Healing the soul” with the Greater Scranton MLK Commission focusing on the effects of the pandemic on the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) community with respect to mental health, stemming off of Dr. King’s quote: “Forgiveness is not an occasional act, it is a constant attitude.”
The webinar will include a keynote address by author, teacher and social worker Laura Quiros Ph.D., associate professor, School of Social Work, Adelphi University and director of Adelphi’s external Diversity Certificate Program. Her books include “Incorporating Diversity and Inclusion into Trauma - Informed Social Work.” She is also a contributing author of “Latinx in Social Work.” She is the recipient of Adelphi University’s Social Justice, Equity Diversity and Inclusion (SJDEI) Excellence in Teaching Award (2021).
Dr. Quiros is an affiliate partner of Coston Consulting, a certified Black-owned business advisory firm. The firm represents clients across industries and specializes in advising professional services firms, with an expertise in the legal industry. Focus areas include strategy, business development, marketing and DEI consulting.
The 2022 webinar will also include a panel discussion featuring: Lia Richards-Palmiter, Ph.D., director Office of Diversity Efforts, assistant professor, Department: School of Social Work, Marywood University; David Palmiter, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist in South Abington Township and Scranton; Lauren Hazzouri, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and the founder of Hazzouri Psychology in Scranton; and Lauri Andress Ph.D., J.D., associate dean of Equity, Inclusion and Community Engagement, associate professor, Department of Medical Education, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine.
Also at the event, The Greater Scranton MLK Commission will honor Ida L. Castro, J.D., as the recipient of the “Distinguished Honor” award for her significant contributions and many years of diversity work in the Scranton community. Atty. Castro is the former vice president for community engagement, associate dean for equity and inclusion and chief diversity officer of Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine.
The Commission will also present the “Agent of Change” award will be given to the Wallenpaupack Area School District for their efforts and continuing work to educate faculty, staff and students on diversity, inclusion and positive race relations.
Registration is required to attend the event. To register, visit https://safdn.org/mlk-event/. Questions about the event can be emailed to gsmlkcommission@gmail.com.
Virtual MLK Celebration Set for Jan. 16
Note: Access to the campus is currently limited to members of the University community, invited guests and others as listed in the Royals Back Together plan. Campus access and other health and safety information will be updated throughout the semester and can be seen on the Royals Back Together webpage.
Jan. 16 2:30 p.m. The Greater Scranton Martin Luther King Community Celebration: “Covid 19: Recognizing the trauma. Healing the soul.” Interactive Zoom webinar with audience question and answer. Free. Registration required. Call 570-941-6645 or email jennifer.pennington@scranton.edu.
Jan. 29 8 a.m. Virtual Campaign School 2022. Learn how to run a successful campaign for public office. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Lackawanna County, the Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service at The University of Scranton, WNEP-TV and Toyota of Scranton. Registration required. Fees vary. Email lwvlackawanna@gmail.com or visit www.lwvlackawanna.org.
University Announces January Public Events
On Dec. 14, 2021, the Staff Senate Social Events and Community Building Committee hosted a Holiday Social for staff in the Byron Gym. University President Joseph G. Marina kicked off the event offering words of encouragement and prayer. While this event was different than those luncheons held previously, including a pre-sale for raffle tickets, the Senate said that it was a huge success.
On the day of the event, staff was encouraged to socialize while browsing the raffle basket tables. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, hot apple cider and packaged Gertrude Hawk candy bars were available for all to take out. Refreshments were also provided for the third shift in the DeNaples Center.
In total, the event raised $1,112 through basket raffle ticket sales. The Senate collected approximately 600 pounds of donated food items for the student pantry in the Leahy Clinic. Funds collected through the ticket sales will be donated to The Royal Experience Summer Internship Program, a selective opportunity that awards stipends to University of Scranton undergraduate students who obtain internships with organizations that are not able to provide a salary or stipend.
Winners of the basket raffles are:
Basket #1 50/50 (2 winners): Melissa Przewlocki/Lucy Grissinger
Basket #2 Pasta Night Basket: Janice Mecadon
Basket #3 Superhero Basket: Laura Carroll
Basket #4 Catalano’s Basket: Mary Ellen Burns
Basket #5 Night Before Christmas Basket: Mary Ellen Burns
Basket #6 Movie Night Basket: Amy Black
Basket #7 Wine Basket: Dave Caffrey
Basket #8 Corona Basket: Bob Klem
Basket #9 Wine Basket: Meg Hambrose
Basket #10 Dina’s Treats: Mary Sheils
Basket #11 Let it Snow Basket: Pauline Palko
Basket #12 Soup Basket: Lori Moran
Basket #13 CHEW Swag Basket: Rich Trygar
Basket #14 Road Trip Basket: David Kostiak
Basket #15 Candle Basket: Gina Butler
Basket #16 U of S Swag Basket: Geri Barber
Basket #17 Gerrity’s Gift Card: Melissa Eckenrode
Basket #18 Christmas Treats Basket: Sharon Finnerty
Basket #19 Aramark Flex: Cathy Seymour
The Social Events and Community Building Committee would like to thank all who were able to attend the Holiday Social, those who purchased raffle tickets and those individuals, departments and other Staff Senate committees who donated baskets for the event. They hope everyone had an enjoyable time at the Holiday Social look forward to next year.
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Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, has named Gerald Zaboski ’87, G’95, as senior vice president for the Office of the President, effective July 1, 2022.
Zaboski currently serves as vice president for enrollment management and external affairs. In his new position, he will continue to oversee the areas of marketing, communications and external affairs for Scranton, in addition to assuming new responsibilities for assisting the president with the advancement of the University’s strategic plan, and the creation and sustaining of new and existing partnerships with other institutions of higher learning, both international and domestic.
“Beginning his service in 1988, Gerry’s vast experience at Scranton and unquestionable devotion to our mission will prove quite beneficial to our success in the years ahead,” said Father Marina in an announcement to the University community regarding the promotion.
Zaboski will also continue to serve as a member of the University’s cabinet and as the leader for the University’s Incident Management Team.
Zaboski joined the staff at the University in 1988. During his career at Scranton he served as executive assistant to the president, vice president for external affairs and vice president for alumni and public relations. He has also served on and chaired several committees including the University’s 125th Anniversary Committee. Prior to joining the University, he worked as public information manager for the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce.
Zaboski serves on the board and executive committee of the Agency for Community Empowerment, and on the boards of Lackawanna Industrial Fund Enterprises and the Institute for Public Policy and Research. He also serves as treasurer of the West Wyoming Hose Company #1. He is a past president of the Scranton Lions Club.
A resident of West Wyoming, Zaboski earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The University of Scranton and is a member of Alpha Epsilon Alpha and Alpha Sigma Nu honor societies.
Gerald Zaboski Named Senior Vice President
The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded a grant of nearly $50,000 to Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics and electrical engineering at The University of Scranton. The grant will support “The Ham Radio Science Citizen Investigation (HamSCI) 2022 Workshop,” which will take place March 18 and 19 at The U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. The conference, which will take place in-person, also has a virtual format option.
The Ham Radio Science Citizen Investigation (HamSCI) is a collective of professional researchers and licensed amateur radio operators (a.k.a. hams) with the objective to foster collaborations between the amateur and professional communities for the purposes of advancing scientific research and understanding, encouraging the development of new technologies to support this research, and to provide educational opportunities for the amateur radio community and the general public.
The workshop will serve as a team meeting for the HamSCI Personal Space Weather Station project, which is a $1.3 million NSF funded project previously awarded to Dr. Frissell. The project seeks to harness the power of a network of licensed amateur radio operators to better understand and measure the effects of weather in the upper levels of Earth’s atmosphere.
The theme for the two-day HamSCI workshop is “The Weather Connection.” The fifth annual workshop will feature prominent leaders in space weather, atmospheric weather and the connection between them.
Speakers include a keynote presentation by Chen-Pang Yeang, Sc.D., Ph.D., associate professor at the Institute for the History and Philosophy of Science and Technology, University of Toronto and author of “Probing the Sky with Radio Waves: From Wireless Technology to the Development of Atmospheric Science.” He will discuss “Ham Radio and the Discovery of the Ionosphere.” Tamitha Skov, Ph.D., research scientist in the Physical Sciences Laboratory Aerospace Corporation, will discuss the ionospheric impacts of space weather. Dr. Skov is well-known to the amateur radio community as “The Space Weather Woman” through her innovative YouTube space weather forecasts. Jim Bacon, a well-known retired meteorologist from the United Kingdom and active developer of the PropQuest website, will provide an amateur radio tutorial on the influences of terrestrial weather on radio propagation and the ionosphere.
“The workshop series has led to cutting-edge work in the fields of space physics, citizen science, and the use of crowd-sourced ionospheric data,” said Dr. Frissell. “To maximize the potential of the ham radio-professional researcher relationship, meetings are needed to bring these groups together to learn about each other’s communities, vocabularies, share ideas, and participate in activities that advance both the scientific field and the radio hobby.”
Dr. Frissell’s research focuses on the ionosphere, which is an atmospheric region that extends from about 50 to 600 miles above the earth’s surface. According to Dr. Frissell, changes in the ionosphere alter the behavior of radio wave propagation and greatly affect the radio communications and global navigation satellite systems. Understanding ionospheric structures and processes will lead to an increased understanding and prediction of these effects.
In August 2021, Dr. Frissell received a six-figure grant through the NASA’s Space Weather Applications Operations 2 Research Program for the research project “Enabling Space Weather Research with Global Scale Amateur Radio Datasets.”
The location of the 2022 conference near the NASA Marshal Space Flight Center.
Registration for the HamSCI Workshop 2022 will open soon. Registration and additional information about the conference can be found on the HamSCI Workshop 2022 webpage.
Physics Professor Awarded NSF Grant for Workshop
After a banner fall season for The University of Scranton department of athletics, the Royals find themselves in a tie for 38th place overall in the 2022 NCAA Division III LEARFIELD IMG College Directors' Cup standings, which were released recently.
The LEARFIELD IMG College Directors' Cup program honors institutions that maintain a broad-based athletics program, achieving success in many sports, both men's and women's. Now in its 27th year at the Division III level, the program awards points to institutions in a predetermined number of sports for men and women.
With 142 total points for the fall, Scranton leads all Landmark Conference institutions into spring, with their nearest competitor (Susquehanna) coming in with 96 total points and a 58th place finish for the first portion of the athletics year.
Johns Hopkins leads the standings with 471 points.
The high ranking in the LEARFIELD Directors' Cup bookends an incredible fall season for the Royals that saw two programs win Landmark Conference championships and three reach the NCAA Division III Championship in their respective sports.
The Royals' women's soccer team finished the 2021 campaign with an 18-1-1, capturing their second straight (and eighth overall) Landmark Conference title all-time in program history. In the NCAA Division III Tournament, Scranton won two games to advance to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2003, ending the season ranked 10th in the final United Soccer Coaches Division III Top 25 poll.
Scranton field hockey, meanwhile, went 18-2 and won their second straight Landmark Conference title. In the NCAA Tournament, the Royals won their first game ever to advance to the Sweet 16.
The last team to reach the NCAA Tournament was the Scranton volleyball squad, who earned an at-large bid into the field after finishing with a 25-8 overall mark and advancing to the Landmark title match. The bid for the Royals was their first since 2005.
For the full 2022 NCAA Division III LEARFIELD Directors' Cup standings, click here.
The University Ranks 38th in LEARFIELD Directors’ Cup to Top Landmark Conference
Several groups across campus volunteered to give back to the community around Christmastime.
More Than 6,000 Donated Books Blessed at Scranton
The 15th annual Panuska College of Professional Studies Blessing of the Books project collected more than 6,000 children’s books this year. The books were blessed at a ceremony in the lobby of The Kane Forum in the Edward Leahy, Jr. Hall on Dec. 2.
Read more, here.
Students Give at Annual Christmas Gift Drives
More than 200 students, in addition to faculty and staff, participated in The University of Scranton’s annual Christmas gift-giving programs. In addition, Scranton’s Kania School of Management raised funds for this year’s program and Performance Music provided gifts donated by area residents from its Empty Stocking Fund Concert. The gifts were given to Friends of the Poor/Catholic Social Services who will distribute the donated items to families in need.
In addition, the Center for Service and Social Justice organized the Adopt a Family program with the Catherine McAuley Center, which helped 40 family members through generous donations made by members of the University community.
Read more, here.
Pre-Law Society Gives Back
The University of Scranton’s Pre-Law Society had a large turnout on Dec. 6 for its Holiday Service Party. The Society’s officers set a goal of collecting 50 toys. Members rose to the challenge by donating a total of 114 toys for the Catherine McAuley Center’s visiting families. The Catherine McAuley Center assists women and children experiencing homelessness and provides them with temporary shelter and support systems to regain independence. They also signed over 140 handwritten Christmas cards for resident Veterans of the Gino Merli Center. Read more, here.
Holiday Giving Roundup
The Staff Senate welcomed the 29th University President, Rev. Joseph G. Marina, at its October 2021 meeting. The Senate presented Fr. Marina with an artistic rendering of his likeness. The portrait was created by Kym Fetsko, a graphic artist, and administrative assistant for the dean of the library. The artwork currently hangs in the president's office.
Just before his Inauguration, the Staff Senate developed and sent a proclamation to Fr. Marina. In the proclamation, the Senate offered friendship, knowledge and prayers for his success. It also included quotes from several influential Jesuits, including one by the University's 24th and 27th president, Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J. H'15 (1959-2021), who said, "Wherever life takes you, tell the people you meet about the graces given and received on this sacred ground: The University of Scranton. Not where you breathe, but where you love, you live.”
During the October meeting, Fr. Marina reiterated part of his Inauguration speech and offered his sentiments and appreciation for the gift, and the work of the Senate and University staff.
Staff Senate Welcomes University President, Rev. Joseph G. Marina, SJ
Alumni, parents and friends of the University in the Boston, Mass., Philadelphia and New York City areas celebrated the Christmas season together at several regional Christmas events throughout the month of December.
Boston Christmas Stroll Along The Freedom Trail
Alumni and friends enjoyed walking the historic Freedom Trail Dec. 11 and discovering how Boston's holiday traditions evolved. The group was led by a tour guide dressed in the style of a 19th century Dickensian character who pointed out the exceptional holiday lights and Christmas trees along the trail.
The Holly Jolly Trolley
Royals in the Philadelphia area enjoyed live music and magnificent views of the lights of the City of Brotherly Love aboard the Holly Jolly Trolley on Dec. 1 and Dec. 2.
A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens
Alumni and friends enjoyed the beautiful holiday display at Longwood Gardens on Dec. 15. Royals strolling through the gardens were delighted by this year's theme, which showcased the contrast between fire and ice.
New York City Presidential Christmas Reception
Alumni, parents and friends of the University in the New York City area joined the Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, at the New York Athletic Club for a Presidential Christmas Reception on Dec. 8. To see photos from this event, visit this link.
Alumni Celebrate Christmas Season At Regional Events
This winter, The University of Scranton along with community partners will offer a series of events focused on the concept of freedom, both for our founders and for us today, as a part of the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project’s second theme, “The U.S. Citizen and the American Founding.” This project is made possible thanks to a generous National Endowment for the Humanities grant to explore Scranton’s history, culture, and role in the nation at large.
As the project moves into its second theme, the focus of the events will expand outwards from Scranton itself, to the broader questions and concerns that we share as a nation by offering a series of programming to focus on freedom, a foundational concept of our shared American democracy.
Theme 2 events will begin on with a Book Discussion on “Freedom: An Unruly History” on Thursday, Feb. 3 from 5 to 6:15 pm. The discussion group will involve excerpted readings of the book, “Freedom: An Unruly History,” by scholar Annelien de Dijn with a discussion led by Dr. Matt Meyer, University of Scranton Philosophy faculty member. The discussion will explore the American founding’s ideas of freedom and how freedom intersects with issues of equality, liberty, and citizenship in ways that are relevant for us today – from matters of race relations, immigration, and women’s rights to health care, Covid-19, and more. This hybrid event will take place both in-person in the Henkelman Room at the Scranton Public Library and via Zoom. Registration is required at: surveymonkey.com/r/FreedomDiscussion.
Theme 2 events will continue in March with a Humanities Lecture and Q&A, “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?" with featured speakers Annelien de Dijn, author of “Freedom: An Unruly History” and Aziz Rana, author of “The Two Faces of American Freedom.” This lecture will focus on the evolution of the concept of freedom in Western political thought, how it has been understood and interpreted by the founders of our nation, and how we can re-engage with our own notions of “freedom” and what this means for our democracy as we approach our nation’s 250th anniversary. This event will take place on Tuesday, Mar. 1 from 5 to 6:30 pm via Zoom and participants will have the opportunity to submit questions for the speakers during the live Zoom event. Registration will open at the end of January. Please visit scranton.edu/scrantonstory for more information.
On March 22 from 7 to 8:30 pm members from both the University of Scranton and greater Scranton area communities are invited to join a public dialogue on “Freedom and Our Founding: What do they mean for us today?". This dialogue will be held on The University of Scranton campus and will involve facilitated small-group structured dialogues that allow participants to reflect on freedom and the founding and our role as citizens in a democracy. Participants will have a chance to consider brief excerpts from founding related readings, share their own experience and perspectives on issues that relate to freedom and equality today, listen to others’ views and engage in conversation. The University has organized similar discussions on campus since 2017 as part of an ongoing Dialogue Across Differences Initiative, which blends the reflective, structured dialogue methods of national non-profit Essential Partners with St. Ignatius of Loyola’s teachings of discernment and reflection. For tips on how to have your own constructive dialogue that involves both listening to and learning from others, click here. Registration for this public dialogue will open in the coming weeks.
Please check the “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” project website for further details, including event updates, community partners and humanities resources, at scranton.edu/scrantonstory and contact community@scranton.edu with questions.
Follow “Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story” on Facebook and Instagram @ourscrantonstory and on Twitter @scrantonstory.
This project has been made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in these events do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Series of Events in 'Scranton’s Story, Our Nation’s Story' Project to Discuss Freedom
More than 20 alumni, parents and friends of the University kicked off the holiday season by packing 350 boxes of meal kits along an assembly line at the Community Food Bank of New Jersey Dec. 4.
"Overall, I think it was an excellent start to the Christmas and Advent season," said Brianna Tucciarone '20, an Alumni Society Advisory Board Member who volunteered at the project.
To see more photos from the project, visit this link. For more information on regional service projects and the Alumni Society Advisory Board, visit scranton.edu/alumni.
Royals Assist New Jersey Food Bank Dec. 4
The University of Scranton Department of Nursing will host its 10-year Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) site visit from March 28-30, 2022. The 2022 visit will be a virtual site visit.
ln accordance with CCNE's Procedures for Accreditation, the Department of Nursing invites all members of the Scranton community and our educational partners to submit, in writing, third-party comments concerning the Department of Nursing’s qualifications for accreditation of its baccalaureate, master’s, Doctor of Nursing Practice and post-graduate APRN certificate programs. Should you wish, you can refer to the CCNË Standards for Accreditation located on the CCNE website. Please note that any third-party comments are only shared with members of the CCNE evaluation team. These comments are not shared with the Department of Nursing, the Accreditation Review Committee, or the CCNE Board.
lf you would like to submit a third-party comment for a program currently under review, please submit to thirdpartycomments@ccneaccreditation.orq. Comments will be accepted by CCNE through March 1, 2022. lf you prefer to mail comments, please use the following address: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education Attn: Third-Party Comments 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750 Washington, DC 20001. If you have any questions about this process, please contact CCNE staff at 202.887 .6791 x268
CCNE Site Visit for Nursing Accreditation
Monica Brooks, Avoca; Jennifer Davis, Scranton; Jennifer Dice, Dalton; Amourelle Donnay, Dunmore; Suzanne Jarecki, Kunkletown; Katharine Lewis, Scranton; Siobhan McKenna, Clarks Green; and Erin Moskel, Peckville, and two others completed The University of Scranton Women’s Entrepreneurship Center StartUP Fall Program.
Facilitated by experienced business consultants from The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center (SBDC), this six-week certificate series is designed to provide women with the skills and knowledge needed to start their own businesses, with a focus on serving women in transition or those trying to make a better life for themselves and their families. This program offers participants education, support and guidance in determining if entrepreneurship is an option for them while teaching business startup basics, legal and insurance considerations, marketing and social media essentials, business plan development, accounting and budget skills, financing options and goal setting.
Housed in the Kania School of Management, The University of Scranton Women’s Entrepreneurship Center (WEC) is a program of the SBDC. WEC student interns and SBDC staff offer business start-up information, guidance, and encouragement. For more information, visit www.scrantonsbdc.com.
Scranton’s SBDC serves eight counties in Northeastern and Northern Tier Pennsylvania.Area Women Complete SBDC StartUP Program
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Marion Munley ’83, Moosic, recently used her expertise in trucking law to speak to the New Jersey Association for Justice Boardwalk Seminar in 2021 on “Discovery Issues in Trucking Cases.”
Timothy J. Keating ’85, McLean, Virginia, has joined Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLC as a policy director in the firm’s Washington, D.C., Government Relations Department.
Jacquie Cleary ’87, Westfield, New Jersey, the CEO of Atlas, is honored to be announced this year as one of the 50 Fastest Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies. The Women Presidents' Organization (WPO), in collaboration with JPMorgan Chase Commercial Banking, released the 14th annual ranking of the 50 Fastest Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies in October. The companies on this year's 50 Fastest Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies list span a range of industries, from consumer products to STEM-related fields. From January to December of 2020, the 50 Fastest generated a combined $4.1 billion in revenue and collectively employed more than 24,000 people.
Erica Fischer-Cartlidge, '06, Springfield, New Jersey, was the recipient of the 40 Under 40 in Cancer award, which recognizes the contributions being made across the field of cancer by rising stars and emerging leaders under the age of 40 years old. Dr. Cartlidge is an alumnus of The University of Scranton School of Nursing and currently works at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
WEDDINGS
Diana Martin ’11 to Travis Dufner
Erin Barry ’12 to Bridgette Sakar ’12
DEATHS
John E. Walsh, Ed.D. ’49, H’89, Meshoppen
John Elnitsky ’52, Whitehall
Alfred P. Intoccia, Ph.D. ’52, Audubon
Robert P. Schulte ’55, Scranton
James A. Calpin ’59, Midlothian, Virginia
Vito A. Ciaglia ’59, Dunmore
Daniel J. Mozelski ’62, Winchester, Virginia
Nicholas D. Volpetti ’62, Kingston
Samuel G. Bianco ’63, Fredericksburg, Virginia
Paul J. Waldek ’64, Dover, New Jersey
Eugene J. Donahue ’68, Clarks Summit
Michael E. Dux ’77, Philadelphia
Elizabeth Milder Beh ’78, Springbrook Township
James J. Martin ’78, Scranton
Monica Vaughn McGonigle ’78, Fairfax, Virginia
Frank J. Paris ’80, Spring Hill, Florida
Louise Booth Bright ’84, New Hope
Donald J. Kanavy ’87, G’99, Archbald
Eugene J. Deignan ’89, Olyphant
William P. Stoffel ’90, Chatham, New Jersey
Ann Marie O’Hara ’97, Scranton
FRIENDS' DEATHS
Carl F. Green Sr., father of Carl F. Green Jr. '88
Robert W. Hildreth, father of Kate Hildreth ’05
Alumni Class Notes, January 2022
The University of Scranton’s Pre-Law Society had a large turnout on Dec. 6 for its Holiday Service Party. The Society’s officers set a goal of collecting 50 toys. Members rose to the challenge by donating a total of 114 toys for the Catherine McAuley Center’s visiting families. The Catherine McAuley Center assists women and children experiencing homelessness and provides them with temporary shelter and support systems to regain independence. This year’s donation drive was a great way to provide those in need with support during the holidays.
The Society has done more this year to make it onto the "nice list." Members also signed over 140 handwritten Christmas cards for resident Veterans of the Gino Merli Center. Students wrote thoughtful messages thanking veterans and wishing them a wonderful holiday season. The University of Scranton recognizes all that veterans have sacrificed for this country. The Pre-Law Society thought this would be a great way to show their support and gratitude. Thanks to the efforts of the officers and advisor, Attorney Jason Shrive, the Society was able to complete their first community service project since COVID-19 affected our area.
Pre-Law Society Holiday Service Party
CHEW/The Employee Wellness Program is thrilled to announce an Intersession series of drop-in Pickleball starting Tuesday, Jan. 4.
Join us Tuesdays during Intersession from 12 p.m.-1 p.m. for drop-in Pickleball in the Byron Gym (Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25).
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America and a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. No experience is necessary and open for all skill levels. Hope to see you there!